July 10, 2025
Europe’s Way Out of Crisis: Driving Sustainable Transformation with Circular Economy and Digital Innovation
Times of crisis demand clear visions – and collaborative action. The EU’s new regulations on smartphone repairability show that sustainability is no longer optional – it’s mandatory. These measures mark a key milestone for the circular economy and the protection of valuable resources.
By Jan Nintemann and Jochen Siegle
Photo: Smartphone repair. Photo by Vlad – Unsplash
EU Gets Serious on Sustainability: New Rules for Tech Manufacturers
Since 20 June 2025, the European Union has enforced stricter requirements for smartphones and tablets. Manufacturers are now obliged to make batteries longer-lasting, devices easier to repair, and software updates available for several years.
Spare parts must be available for at least seven years. The goals: reduce e-waste, conserve resources, and move firmly towards a circular economy.
These policies send a clear message: Europe recognises that sustainable business depends on clear rules, innovation, and cooperation. The new Ecodesign Directive is a powerful lever to advance both digital and ecological transformation – and enhance Europe’s resilience.
A long-standing driver behind this development is the EU-wide “Right to Repair” initiative: https://repair.eu
Shaping the Future Together: TransformIT Europe as a Platform for Change
In times of energy crises, supply chain disruptions and climate change, cross-border cooperation in Europe is more important than ever – especially when it comes to the circular economy and product repairability. This is precisely where TransformIT Europe steps in.
The conference and expo brings together leaders from technology, politics, business and sustainability to accelerate shared solutions. Greentech and circular economy are at the heart of its agenda.
Circular Economy as a Key Focus at TransformIT
At the kick-off event in Brussels (May 2025), Dr Christoph Soukup from the Steinbeis Advisory Centre for Circular Economy demonstrated how circular principles can be practically integrated into businesses.
Laili Ishaqzai from Dutch refurbishment startup Molano also called for a shift from silo thinking to global collaboration:
“What if the biggest barrier to circularity isn’t innovation – but isolation?”
Digital Tools Enabling Circular Futures
The main programme of TransformIT Europe 2026 will continue to focus on circular economy. Experts from around the world will present how digital technologies – such as AI and the Internet of Things – can support material loops, increase transparency in supply chains, and enable new business models.
Europe Must Stand Together – Digitally and Ecologically
Today’s global challenges show that only a united Europe can navigate this transformation. Common policies – like the new repair directive – bring tangible progress. But equally crucial are shared platforms where innovators can connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
TransformIT Europe has launched to be exactly that: a bridge between digitalisation and sustainability, between technology and climate protection.
Conclusion: Sustainability Needs Clear Rules – and Shared Platforms
The circular economy is a cornerstone of Europe’s future viability. What we need now are not just laws, but spaces for dialogue, innovation and action.
TransformIT Europe provides this space – for a truly sustainable and digital transformation across Europe.
