Feature: AMDEA Update
What we learned from AMDEA’s Conference ‘The Roadmap to a Sustainable Appliance Future’
THIS IS A SUMMARY FROM PAUL HIDE, CEO, AMDEA
I
t is an exciting time for the home appliance world. At this year’s AMDEA (Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances) Annual Conference, held in collaboration with City St George’s University of London it was clear that sustainability and the circular economy are now front and centre, as the industry tackles environmental challenges and meets the expectations of today’s environmentally conscious consumers. This event brought together some of the key experts from the wider sector - industry leaders and policymakers - for meaningful discussions about paving the way to a greener future. The conference zeroed in on two topics,
broken down through lively panel discussions aimed at tackling the industry’ s key questions: • Cradle-to-Grave Sustainability and the Circular Economy – How can manufacturers ensure that appliances are sustainable at every stage of their lifecycle, from design and production to disposal and recycling? • The Role of New Technologies – How can technological advancements drive greater efficiency, reduce environmental footprints, and support sustainability goals?
Exploring ‘Cradle to Grave’ Sustainability Participants emphasised the shift towards a circular economy. This approach requires new way of thinking about the business model, away from buying new every time, although a balance needs to be struck as new appliances are often far more efficient than appliances of ten years old or more. Appliances are being designed so they can be reused, repaired, or recycled instead of ending up as waste. Retailers play an important role here too. They’re often the ones introducing customers to products, and many of them promoting sustainability and eco- ratings on their websites to guide buyers and also providing access to professional repairers. Increasingly larger retailers offer a collection and recycling service, and some sell refurbished models, helping consumers to save money whilst keeping appliances in use.
14 |
www.ierdaily.co.uk Discussions also touched on the importance
of integrating sustainability into product design. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting eco- innovative practices, such as using recycled and biodegradable materials and enhancing product longevity through greater repairability. These measures are not only crucial for minimising waste but also for aligning with regulatory frameworks and evolving consumer demands.
Technology as a Catalyst for Sustainability The second panel session brought attention to cutting-edge technologies set to revolutionise the appliance industry. From smart appliances that optimise energy use to AI-driven maintenance alerts that extend product life, innovation was identified as a key enabler of sustainability. Experts discussed the potential of Internet
of Things (IoT)-enabled appliances to track usage patterns and help consumers make more informed decisions about energy and water consumption. Similarly, advancements in renewable energy integration, such as home hubs were showcased as transformative solutions for reducing environmental impact. Technological innovation, however, comes with its challenges. Panellists debated the trade- offs between rapid digitalisation and the need to ensure that technological solutions themselves remain eco-friendly and accessible to all segments of society.
PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
Breaking Barriers: Collaboration is Key Another significant takeaway from the conference was the emphasis on collaboration. To achieve meaningful progress, stakeholders from across the value chain—manufacturers, retailers, governments, and consumers—must work together. This collective effort is essential for overcoming financial, logistical, and behavioural obstacles. One proposed solution was the need for
clearer communication about sustainability goals. Educating consumers about the environmental benefits of sustainable appliances, as well as providing incentives for repairing and recycling them, was highlighted as a vital step in driving behavioural change and here retailers can be a vital gateway to better informed consumers.
Conclusion The AMDEA Annual Conference 2025 underscored the appliance industry’s potential to lead the way in sustainability. By embracing cradle-to-grave strategies, leveraging new technologies, and fostering collaboration, the sector can pave the path to a greener and more sustainable future. As the conference drew to a close, it became evident that while obstacles remain, the momentum for change is undeniable. A full conference report will be available on the AMDEA website at the end of June.
Summer 2025
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
