Summary: <br> <br> Planned Obsolescence: What It Is + What To Do About It<br> They just don’t make things the way they used to. It’s true: These days, electronics and appliances are often made with cheap parts that are designed to break just after warrantees expire. But planned obsolescence is more than just cheap products; it’s automatic software updates that render our tech useless. It’s missing user manuals and discontinued parts, too.<br> The linear economy favors production, consumption, and—eventually—disposal. Not surprisingly, planned obsolescence creates extra and unnecessary waste and is a serious problem for our planet. Every year, up to 50 million tons of electronic waste is randomly disposed of, and e-waste, specifically, leaches hazardous chemicals into landfills as they break down which pollutes soil and waterways well beyond the confines of the dump.<br> On this week’s show I describe the sneaky ways planned obsolescence creates repeat customers out of the best of us. I offer 8 concrete tips for fighting back, too, as well as specific ideas on how to extend the lives of our smart phones.<br> Enjoy!<br> * Access this week’s Show Notes <a href="https://mamaminimalist.com/planned-obsolescence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.<br> * Like what you hear? Please leave the show a quick review! <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sustainable-minimalists-podcast/id1329830361" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">On the Apple Podcasts app</a>, hit the Library tab, scroll allll the way to the bottom past all prior episodes, then click on the stars to leave a review. (Thank you!)<br> * Want more episodes like this one? Try <a href="https://mamaminimalist.com/071/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">#071 Conscious Consumerism for Real People</a>.<br> * Find your tribe. Sustainable Minimalists are on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SustainableMinimalists/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook,</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mommyminimalist/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instagram</a> + <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/mommyminimalist/pins/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pinterest</a>.<br>
