USB:RE

Charging cables are produced in vast quantities worldwide—yet they are often discarded just as quickly, frequently ending up in household waste. This practice leads to the unnecessary loss of valuable resources, as each cable contains high-quality raw materials such as copper, a metal that is highly recyclable. In an efficient recycling process, cables are shredded, their various materials are separated, and the copper is cleaned and reused. A well-functioning circular economy could significantly reduce the demand for environmentally harmful mining and the energy-intensive production of new materials. However, metal recovery is only part of the problem. The plastic insulation surrounding many charging cables presents an even greater challenge. Most cables are coated in PVC or other non-biodegradable plastics, which, if disposed of improperly, can release microplastics into the environment. If incinerated, they may also produce toxic byproducts that contribute to air pollution and health risks. Additionally, some cables contain plasticizers, which can pose long-term health concerns for humans and wildlife. Many charging cables are thrown away long before they actually stop working. One of the most common reasons for this is cable breakage, which often occurs near the connectors due to repeated bending and strain. In other cases, cables become obsolete simply because consumers switch to new devices with different charging requirements. This short lifespan not only leads to growing amounts of electronic waste but also puts an increasing strain on resource extraction and production. To address these issues, a better recycling infrastructure is necessary—but an even more sustainable solution is to rethink how charging cables are designed in the first place. Instead of treating them as disposable items, they should be built to last, easy to repair, and modular in design. The introduction of the unified USB-C standard in the EU in 2024 was a major step toward greater compatibility between electronic devices. However, standardization alone is not enough if products continue to be designed for disposability rather than longevity. Recognizing this, the EU Ecodesign Regulation, which came into force in July 2024, places repairability at the core of sustainable product development. Only products that can be repaired and used long-term are truly future-proof and environmentally responsible. This is where USB:RE comes in. By embracing these principles, USB:RE sets a new standard for charging cables—one that prioritizes longevity, repairability, and waste reduction. Instead of adding to the growing piles of discarded cables, it offers a practical and scalable solution to one of the most overlooked sources of electronic waste.

The USB:RE cable is based on a simple idea: instead of throwing away an entire charging cable when a part breaks, only the faulty component needs to be replaced. The design consists of three interchangeable parts—two plugs and a cable—which can be easily separated and swapped out when necessary. This modular approach significantly extends the product’s lifespan and reduces waste. The technology behind USB:RE is inspired by Ethernet network cables, which rely on clamp-based, screwless, and pluggable contacts. This allows the components to be detached and reconnected without the need for any tools. A particularly innovative feature is that the internal wire strands do not need to be stripped—when the plug is closed, the contacts automatically pierce through the insulation, establishing a secure and reliable connection. To further promote sustainability, all components can be reordered individually, allowing users to upgrade or expand their cables as needed. Customers who return defective components can receive a discounted replacement, encouraging responsible disposal and recycling. Beyond modularity, USB:RE is designed for easy repairs. Many cable failures occur due to small issues, such as cracked insulation or minor fraying. Instead of discarding the entire cable, users can perform quick fixes with simple materials. For example, shrink tubing can be used to reinforce damaged insulation—requiring nothing more than a heat source, such as a lighter. This approach makes self-repair accessible to everyone, even without technical expertise. The USB:RE concept extends beyond just the hardware. In addition to being available in electronics stores and charging accessory outlets, the product is also supported by a digital platform that provides information on maintenance, self-repair, and responsible disposal. By equipping consumers with the knowledge and tools they need, USB:RE empowers them to actively participate in a more sustainable way of consuming and maintaining technology.