The ESPR: A New Era for Sustainable Products

On July 18th 2024, The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) was officially passed, introducing significant changes aimed at promoting sustainability across the EU. This groundbreaking regulation brings several new measures, including the innovative Digital Product Passport (DPP), designed to enhance transparency and drive the circular economy.

The ESPR is a new regulation by the European Union that ensures products are designed with sustainability in mind. It builds on the existing Ecodesign Directive but goes further by setting higher standards for a wider range of products.

Introducing the Digital Product Passport 

One of the most exciting aspects of the ESPR is the Digital Product Passport (DPP). This digital tool will store essential information about products, such as:

• Material composition
• Repair instructions
• Recycling guidelines
  
  

The DPP will help consumers make informed decisions, encourage the repair and recycling of products, and support a circular economy.

What Makes a Product Sustainable Under the ESPR?

A product is considered sustainable if it has one or more of the following characteristics:

• Uses less energy: Products that consume less power and help save energy.
• Lasts longer: Durable products that don’t need to be replaced frequently.
• Can be easily repaired: Items designed so that they can be fixed easily.
• Parts can be disassembled and reused: Components that can be taken apart and used again.
• Contains fewer harmful substances: Reduced use of dangerous chemicals.
• Can be easily recycled and contains recycled content: Products that are easy to recycle and made with recycled materials.
• Has a lower carbon and environmental footprint: Products designed to have minimal impact on the environment throughout their life.
  
  

The Fashion Industry

• Broad Scope: The ESPR covers more than just energy-related products. It emphasizes sustainability through criteria such as durability, carbon footprint, and recycled material content.
• New Sustainability and Ecodesign Approach: Brands must now consider performance requirements, environmental impact, resource efficiency, and manage substances of concern in their designs.
• Digital Product Passport (DPP): The DPP will provide essential information, enhancing transparency and traceability throughout the product lifecycle.
• No More Waste: The regulation bans the destruction of unsold textiles and footwear, encouraging sustainable inventory management and reducing waste.
• Market Surveillance: Increased focus on market surveillance and customs controls to ensure compliance with the new standards.

The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) marks a significant step towards a sustainable future in the EU. By setting higher standards for product design and introducing the Digital Product Passport, the ESPR aims to create a more transparent, efficient, and circular economy. This regulation not only benefits the environment but also offers opportunities for businesses to innovate and lead in sustainability. As these changes take effect, we can look forward to a greener and more sustainable marketplace.

What does it mean?

Today, there are no new requirements for companies to implement since this is a framework regulation. However, we are now a step closer to almost all physical products in the EU being designed according to circular and ecodesign requirements.

Delogue recommends 

Start collecting and upgrading the needful data on the products you work with. It’s all about understanding our supply chains and their importance in the work that needs to be done.

There is a very big need for great and meaningful collaborations with the suppliers, to ensure that they do not become overwhelmed in the process. By doing so, it will help brands understand the environmental and resource impact of the products they create.