To enhance the sustainability of products and services on the market, the European Union has expanded the scope of the existing Eco-design Directive with the new Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), which came into effect on 18 July 2024. The ESPR covers a wide range of product sectors sold in the EU, including components and intermediate products.
The primary goal of the ESPR is to reduce environmental impact across the entire product lifecycle, from design to disposal. The regulation sets clear requirements regarding energy efficiency, emissions, and other product aspects, such as durability, reliability, reusability, upgradability, and repairability. It also provides consumers with transparent product information on environmental performance to help them make more sustainable choices.
Building on the Eco-design Directive, which previously focused mainly on energy-related products like appliances, the ESPR now extends to a broader range of sectors, including electronics, textiles, furniture, food packaging, and construction materials. However, it does not apply to certain categories of products, such as food and feed, medicinal products, and vehicles.
The regulation introduces new requirements, including a Digital Product Passport, rules for the destruction of unsold consumer products, and more. It aims to improve product transparency by introducing eco-labels or certifications that highlight environmental performance, enabling consumers to make more informed decisions and supporting the market for sustainable products.
Once the law is approved, it will be implemented progressively, starting with specific product categories and expanding to others over time. Full implementation across all sectors is expected to take several years.
Compliance XL offers ESPR compliance consulting services and supports companies with data collection to meet the EU’s new regulation. We also help clients maintain up-to-date supplier certificates and declarations as part of their compliance data management strategy.
FAQs:
1. How can I analyze whether a product complies with ESPR?
Products covered by the ESPR will feature clearer labeling, providing consumers with certification and sustainability information. Non-compliance can lead to fines or restrictions on market access.
2. Does ESPR cover electronics?
Yes, the ESPR applies to all physical products, including electronics. Although a delegated act has not yet been published, the working plan, which will be adopted by 19 April 2025, includes information and communication technology products and other electronics.
3.What are the key requirements of ESPR that differ from the Eco-design Directive?
Key differences include the introduction of the Digital Product Passport and new requirements for the destruction of unsold consumer goods.
