eunion1-8, Exercise 2: Common charger and the Brussels effect

Model answer:

For: it reduces electronic waste and saves consumers money by ending the need for a different charger for each device.
Against: rules fixed in law could hold back innovation in connectors (a view put by some manufacturers).

The "Brussels effect": when the Union is a large enough market, companies often adopt its rules everywhere instead of making two versions, so an EU rule can end up affecting shoppers outside the Union. Supporters see this as influence; critics as unaccountable reach.