The concept of planned obsolescence, where products are intentionally designed to have a limited lifespan or become obsolete after a certain time, is not a new phenomenon. While not all modern consumer appliances are engineered with planned failure, some manufacturers have employed strategies to ensure product replacement or increased sales.
Planned obsolescence can take various forms:
Functional Obsolescence: This occurs when products are designed with components that wear out or fail after a specific period, making the product inoperable or less efficient. These components might be difficult or costly to repair or replace.
Technological Obsolescence: This happens when rapid advancements in technology render older products outdated or incompatible with newer systems or features.
Style Obsolescence: Manufacturers may design products to follow the latest trends or fashion, encouraging consumers to replace their older products with newer, more stylish ones.
Economic Obsolescence: Companies may intentionally limit access to replacement parts or provide limited support for older models, encouraging customers to buy newer versions.
The origins of planned obsolescence can be traced back to the 1920s and 1930s when business leaders and economists started exploring the idea as a means to stimulate demand and economic growth. However, it's important to note that not all products are engineered with planned obsolescence in mind. Many manufacturers strive to produce high-quality, long-lasting products to build brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.
In recent years, there has been increased awareness and criticism of planned obsolescence, as consumers become more concerned about the environmental impact of disposable products and the wastefulness of constantly replacing items that could have been designed to last longer.
Governments and consumer advocacy groups in various countries have taken steps to address this issue by implementing regulations on product durability, promoting repairability, and encouraging more sustainable product design and manufacturing practices. As a result, some companies are shifting their focus towards more durable and repairable products to meet changing consumer demands and environmental concerns.