The UK government is looking into whether to mandate a common charger for electrical goods as part of efforts to cut down on e-waste.

In 2022, the EU introduced similar rules mandating that all small- and medium-sized portable devices have a USB-C charging port by 28 December 2024.

The rules mean that USB-C ports need to be the standard for mobile phones, tablets, headphones, e-readers, low-powered laptops, keyboards, computer mice, earbuds, smart watches and electronic toys.

However, as the UK had already left the EU by then, those rules did not apply to it. The government at the time said it would not introduce similar rules.

Nevertheless, the Office for Product Safety and Standards has launched a call for evidence for adopting similar directives as it believes they would benefit consumers while delivering environmental benefits such as a potential reduction in e-waste.

“We are seeking views from manufacturers, importers, distributors and trade associations as to whether it would be helpful...