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One-size chargers to fit all

Date published: 03 April 2009

North West Euro-MP Chris Davies is calling for the European Union to cut costs and get rid of waste by introducing universal adaptors for mobile phones, digital cameras, mp3 players and laptops.

The Liberal Democrat environment spokesman wants all such devices to be able to use the same charger.

Now the European Commissioner for Enterprise, Gunther Verheugen, has told manufacturers they have until the end of the month to reach a voluntary agreement to improve practices, or an EU law will be introduced to force them to do so.

Mr Davies said that having just one type of connection would be of real benefit to millions.

He added: “I’m always losing phone chargers and cursing the fact that none of the other ones I have will fit.

“Europe is the world’s biggest market for mobile phones.

“We have the power to knock heads together, put a stop to wasteful competition and set standards that will benefit people everywhere.”

Comments

This story has already been reported a few months ago in some of the broadsheets. SOme of the major manufactors such as Nokia and Motorola have already agreed to introduce them. The connectors are to be along the lines of USB plugs.

Standardisation for classes of appliance (eg phones, mp3 players) is a good idea, but the environmental impact of having to make a phone charger that is capable of powering a laptop does not bear thinking about.