The European Commission just released its first working plan for the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). If that doesn’t sound thrilling yet, stick with us — this plan has big implications for what you wear, where you sit, and how you design and sell products in a rapidly changing regulatory world.
Let’s decode it: What is the ESPR plan actually about?
This is the EU doubling down on its promise to make products more sustainable, repairable, recyclable — and traceable. Over the next 3–5 years, the Commission will focus on specific product groups with the biggest environmental impact, aiming to push them through tighter ecodesign requirements. Think: less waste, more reuse, and full lifecycle thinking baked into product development.
Who’s on the list? Who’s not (yet)?
Prioritised:
- Final products: Textiles (yes, fashion), furniture, mattresses, tyres, and electronics.
- Intermediate products: Aluminium, iron, and steel.
The inclusion of mattresses was unexpected but came after strong feedback from stakeholders. And while footwear, detergents, paints, and chemicals didn’t make the first cut, the Commission hasn’t ruled them out for future updates.
What’s this got to do with Digital Product Passports?
A lot. ESPR requirements are going to include a new layer of product-level transparency. Enter: Digital Product Passports (DPPs).
At SmartDPP, we’ve been preparing for this moment. Our platform is built for what ESPR demands: making it possible to trace a product’s origins, materials, care instructions, repair options — and even track ownership and resale. In short, everything ESPR wants brands to disclose, we help you deliver.
Why should businesses pay attention?
Because this isn’t just about compliance — it’s about competitive advantage. The EU isn’t just asking for better products. It’s asking for a better product story. DPPs are how you tell that story, with facts, transparency, and even a little flair (yes, we do AR try-on and NFC too).
Companies that move early will not only be better prepared for regulations — they’ll be the ones setting the standard and winning customer trust in the process.
What’s next?
Stakeholder consultations are ongoing, and the working plan will evolve. But the direction is clear: products are expected to work harder for the planet, and brands are expected to show their work.
We’ll keep tracking the updates. In the meantime, if you’re in fashion, furniture, or manufacturing — or just want to future-proof your products — now’s the time to explore how Digital Product Passports can support your sustainability goals and ESPR compliance.
Want to see how SmartDPP can get you started? Let’s talk.
