Industry leaders at this year’s AMDEA Conference have called for a more joined-up approach to achieving net zero and building a sustainable future for home appliances.
Held at City St George’s University in London on 1 May and hosted by broadcaster Maggie Philbin OBE, the event explored key themes including repairability, recycling, smart tech, and consumer education.
In his keynote address, AMDEA CEO Paul Hide emphasised the industry’s progress but warned that more collaboration is needed across the supply chain and with government.
“Achieving a fully circular economy is no small task, but as an industry, we are committed to making it happen,” he said.
Mr Hide highlighted AMDEA’s Know Watt’s What campaign, which helps consumers understand how efficient appliance use can reduce energy and water bills. He also promoted the Register My Appliance scheme as a vital safety measure.
He warned, however, that encouraging repairs over replacements must be balanced with safety: “Repairs must be done correctly and with approved parts to avoid risks such as fire or electrocution.”
AMDEA is urging the government to act on four key areas: standardised sustainability messaging, reform of home energy grant schemes, incentives for repair, and increased R&D support.
Environmental campaigner Sir Jonathon Porritt CBE closed the event with a call for clearer consumer guidance and more durable product design. He criticised political inaction and urged the industry to lead on low-carbon innovation.
“People are confused and often indifferent. The industry must do more to guide them,” he said.
AMDEA will publish a full report from the conference at www.amdea.org.uk in the coming weeks.
