Broad consensus on adoption of USB Type – C as charging port for electronic devices: Ministry

In a statement, the ministry said, “During the meeting, a broad consensus emerged among stakeholders on adoption of USB Type – C as a charging port for electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops etc. Further, it was deliberated that a different charging port may be adopted for feature phones.”

“The Department has also decided to form a sub-group to examine the feasibility of uniform charging port for wearables. The sub-group will include representatives from industry bodies, educational institutions etc.,” the statement said.

“It was also felt that an impact study may be conducted by the MoEFCC to assess and examine the possible impact of uniform charging port in electronic devices with regard to e-waste,” the statement said.

The statement further said, “Stakeholders agreed that a phased roll-out of the common charging port may be conducted so that the same can be applied by the industry and adopted by consumers harmoniously.”

As per the statement, Singh told the stakeholders that the industry should overcome inertia in adopting a uniform charging port in the interest of consumer welfare and prevention of avoidable e-waste.

The government is exploring the possibility of adopting a common charging standard for mobile phones and other portable electronic devices.

In August, this year, the ministry had invited industry and other concerned stakeholders for a meeting to brainstorm a framework where there are only two types of charging ports in India – one for feature phones, and the other for “small and medium sized electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, earbuds, portable speakers, etc”.

The ministry’s move came in the backdrop of the concept of LiFE – Lifestyle for the Environment – announced by the Prime Minister at the UN Climate Change Conference (CoP 26) held in Glasgow last year. Besides, the Union Cabinet has also approved India’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) – a climate action plan to cut emissions, according to which, the country has committed to reducing the emissions intensity of the GDP by 45% by 2030. To achieve this, the ministry is aiming to reduce electronic waste.