ESPR & Digital Product Passports
EU 2024/1781
The ESPR is the EU's flagship regulation establishing the legal framework for Digital Product Passports. It replaces the 2009 Ecodesign Directive, expanding scope from energy-related products to nearly all physical products placed on the EU market. T...
Overview
The ESPR is the EU's flagship regulation establishing the legal framework for Digital Product Passports. It replaces the 2009 Ecodesign Directive, expanding scope from energy-related products to nearly all physical products placed on the EU market. The regulation mandates DPPs through product-specific delegated acts, with the first requirements applying to batteries in February 2027.
Key Requirements
The ESPR introduces several requirements that directly impact how businesses manage product data and Digital Product Passports.
- Digital Product Passport mandatory for regulated product categories
- Unique product identifier via GS1 Digital Link or equivalent
- Machine-readable data accessible via QR code or data carrier
- Different access levels for consumers, authorities, and businesses
- Product environmental footprint declarations
- Recycled content and recyclability information
- Substances of concern disclosure
- Ban on destruction of unsold consumer goods (Article 25)
Implementation Timeline
Key dates and milestones for the ESPR.
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July 2024
ESPR Enters into Force
Regulation 2024/1781 published in Official Journal and enters into force.
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February 2027
Battery Passports Mandatory
First DPP requirement: battery passports for industrial and EV batteries above 2 kWh.
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July 2027
Textiles & Footwear
DPP requirements expected for textiles and footwear sectors via delegated acts.
-
2028
Priority Sectors
Electronics, furniture, iron & steel, aluminium, tyres, and other priority categories.
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2029-2030
Full Rollout
Remaining product categories phased in, covering most physical products on EU market.
Affected Sectors
These product sectors are impacted by the ESPR. Each has specific DPP requirements and deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the ESPR take effect?
The ESPR entered into force in July 2024. Product-specific DPP requirements are phased in through delegated acts, with batteries first in February 2027.
Which products need a DPP under ESPR?
Nearly all physical products placed on the EU market, except food, feed, and medicinal products. Requirements are introduced sector by sector through delegated acts.
Does the ESPR apply to non-EU businesses?
Yes. Any product placed on the EU single market must comply, regardless of where it was manufactured. Importers and authorised representatives share responsibility.
What is Article 25 of the ESPR?
Article 25 bans the destruction of unsold consumer goods, requiring economic operators to disclose disposal practices and seek alternatives like donation or recycling.
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Prepare for ESPR Compliance
Create your Digital Product Passports today with built-in ESPR compliance scoring. Be ready before the February 2027 deadline.