The concept of 'planned obsolescence' has long been a cornerstone of consumer electronics manufacturing, where products are deliberately designed with a limited lifespan to encourage repeat purchases. However, recent shifts in both consumer behavior and regulatory frameworks are challenging this model. The European Union's 'Right to Repair' legislation, for instance, mandates that manufacturers provide spare parts and repair manuals for up to ten years after a product's release. Proponents argue that such measures reduce electronic waste and empower consumers, while critics contend that they stifle innovation by diverting resources away from R&D. Empirical studies on the impact of these laws remain inconclusive, with some showing a modest decrease in e-waste but others noting increased costs for manufacturers, which are often passed on to consumers. This tension between sustainability and economic growth underscores a broader debate about the ethics of design in a resource-constrained world.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es una posible consecuencia negativa de la legislación del 'Derecho a Reparar' mencionada?
A. A. Conduce a un aumento significativo de los residuos electrónicos.
B. B. Puede elevar los precios al consumidor debido al aumento de los costos del fabricante.
C. C. Impide que los fabricantes lancen nuevos productos.
D. D. Obliga a las empresas a ignorar las preocupaciones ambientales.
✅ 正确答案
B. It may raise consumer prices due to increased manufacturer costs.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first