Planned Obsolescence: An Economic and Social Issue

Planned obsolescence is a business strategy where products are intentionally designed to have a limited lifespan or to become outdated quickly, encouraging consumers to replace them sooner. This practice boosts sales for companies but can lead to increased waste, environmental harm, and financial burdens on consumers. It raises ethical concerns about sustainability and consumer rights, as products are made to last only for a certain period, regardless of their potential durability. Overall, planned obsolescence highlights how economic interests can sometimes conflict with social and environmental well-being.