Planned obsolescence – today’s engineerind dilemma

Planned obsolescence (PO) is a policy of planning, designing and manufacturing products with limited serviceable life. It has become an indispensable companion for today's economy, causing a lot of ethical and ecological controversy and stands in opposition to the strategy of sustainable development. The article presents environmental hazards resulting from the application of this strategy, draws attention to the widespread use of PO, with particular focus at the electronics industry. The range of activities and procedures used in the design and manufacture of products resulting from planned obsolescence was described. It was found that this strategy determinates the way of future business, obliging the engineers to design and produce goods according to planned obsolescence guidelines. This strategy brings profits to corporation, not paying attention to consumers and the environment.