Enhancing sustainability with the right to repair
The right to repair is a critical component of the circular economy, promoting sustainability by extending the lifespan of products and reducing waste. In Canada’s auto care sector, ensuring access to repair data and services empowers consumers with choices, making vehicle maintenance more affordable and efficient.
Amin Youssef, regional vice president of Fix Network World, dives into how the right to repair and the circular economy presents an opportunity to enhance vehicle longevity, minimize environmental impact, and improve safety.
Amin Youssef, Fix Network World
How does the right to repair impact the circular economy?
The right to repair aligns with the circular economy principles which emphasize sustainability and social responsibility. A key aspect of the circular economy is extending the life cycle of products through resource sharing and repurposing. However, without access to repair data, consumers face limited maintenance options and higher service costs, often leading to disposal instead of maintenance and repair.
The right to repair addresses this by empowering consumers with choices on where and how they can maintain their products. This significantly extends the lifespan of purchases, enabling the circular economy to function at its best. By keeping products in service longer and recirculating resources rather than discarding them, the right to repair directly enhances the flow and effectiveness of the circular economy.
With the right to repair seeing progress in Canada, what does this mean for vehicle longevity and sustainability?
Automotive consumers today are well-informed—there is a plethora of data available to them at their fingertips. So today’s consumers are seeking competitive pricing, stand-out customer service, and options on the regular maintenance of their vehicle; options that really ensure the maximum life of their vehicle, as well as certified maintenance in line with the manufacturer’s standard of repair. Accessibility to reliable, affordable, certified automotive repair services is truly paramount to the longevity of the vehicle’s life cycle.
For those in rural areas, such as parts of Northern Ontario or the outskirts of Halifax, proximity to repair services becomes a significant consideration. The right to repair supports vehicle longevity by fostering an ecosystem of sustainability through industry practices, such as recycling automotive parts, fluids, and accessories. By ensuring accessible repair options across Canada, this initiative promotes extended vehicle use and reduces environmental impact.
How can right to repair legislation lessen the environmental impact of vehicles—and parts—in Canada?
Enshrining access to data into legislation to allow for fair and competitive auto care sector services will increase the overall presence of service points for consumers across the country. It is simple: as the population grows and vehicles become more complex, requiring diverse certifications, the need for additional service points increases. The growing presence of auto repair shops, parts distributors, and automotive recycling facilities across municipalities and townships are positive for the environment.
From something as simple as a miles-driven perspective, the less a consumer needs to drive to access quality auto care and repair services, the better the overall environmental impact in the long term.
Does right to repair legislation enhance vehicle safety?
Without the right to repair, there is an absence of quality competition that consumers want and need. As cost considerations become a growing factor in decision-making, some may unknowingly compromise on key aspects of vehicle maintenance and safety. However, with right to repair legislation, there is healthy economic competition where consumers can choose a service provider that can suit their budget. And for auto care services, it ensures that the businesses can deliver repairs that align with manufacturer standards, enhancing both safety and consumer confidence.
The path forward: A unified industry effort
Achieving the full potential of the right to repair movement requires grassroots involvement from all stakeholders in the automotive aftermarket—collision repairers, mechanical garages, parts distributors, and manufacturers. Eliminating competitive barriers and fostering collaboration are crucial for the industry’s long-term success.
Globally, the right to repair is gaining momentum. A united approach will ensure the success of this movement, promoting sustainability, consumer empowerment, and the overall betterment of the automotive sector. By coming together, stakeholders can secure a future where the right to repair benefits everyone.
About the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector
Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) is an Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) community comprising of young executives, of 45 years or younger, in the Canadian auto care sector. They support the career growth of young professionals by expanding their network and assisting them in becoming a thought leader in Canada’s auto care industry.