The European Commission has approved the working plan for the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Energy Labelling Regulation for the years 2025 to 2030. Initially adopted in July 2024, the ESPR aims to enhance the sustainability of products sold in the EU market by improving their circularity, energy efficiency, recyclability, and durability, while also fostering a more integrated market and bolstering the competitiveness and resilience of the EU economy.
The plan outlines a prioritized list of products that will be the focus for the introduction of eco-design standards and energy labeling over the next five years.
This initiative aims to promote sustainable, repairable, circular, and energy-efficient products throughout Europe, aligning with the goals of the Clean Industrial Deal and the Competitiveness Compass, according to an official statement.
The products identified as priorities for these requirements include steel and aluminum, textiles (particularly apparel), furniture, tires, and mattresses.
The establishment of unified product sustainability standards at the EU level will strengthen the single market, eliminate trade barriers, create a level playing field, reduce administrative complexities, and enhance the global competitiveness of businesses that offer sustainable products, as noted in the release.
Furthermore, the Commission plans to roll out comprehensive measures related to the repairability of items such as consumer electronics and small home appliances. This will involve introducing a repairability score for products with high potential for improvement, as well as requirements regarding the recyclability of electrical and electronic devices.
Upcoming eco-design and energy labeling standards for the identified products will focus on two main aspects: product performance, including minimum durability, energy efficiency, resource efficiency, availability of spare parts, and minimum recycled content; and product information, detailing key features like the product’s carbon and environmental footprint.
Key product information will primarily be accessible through the digital product passport or, for products with energy labels, via the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL).
In formulating eco-design requirements, the Commission will take into account the specific needs of small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly micro-enterprises and small mid-cap companies, ensuring that tailored support is provided to them.
Eco-design and energy labeling standards will be established through delegated acts on a per-product basis or for groups of similar products, based on comprehensive preparatory studies and impact assessments.
