What is ESPR? The EU Eco-Design Regulation and its Impact on Businesses
This forms the framework of the EU's sustainable products policy. ESPR — Eco-design Regulation for Sustainable Products ((EU) 2024/1781), Eco-design principles are being extended far beyond energy products, encompassing almost all physical products.
What is ESPR?
The ESPR (Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation) entered into force on July 18, 2024, replacing the old Ecodesign Directive (2009/125/EC). While the old directive only covered energy-related products, the ESPR almost all product groups It is a framework regulation that can introduce sustainability requirements.
What requirements can the ESPR impose?
- Durability, reusability, and repairability.
- Recycled content and recyclability
- Energy and resource efficiency
- Concerning substances monitoring of its existence
- Carbon and environmental footprint knowledge
- Digital Product Passport (DPP) obligation
Prohibition on the destruction of unsold products.
One of the notable provisions of the ESPR is, The destruction of unsold textile and footwear products is prohibited. (with certain exceptions and a staggered schedule). This aims to reduce overproduction and waste.
How are the requirements determined?
ESPR is a framework regulation; it has specific requirements for each product group. delegated acts This is determined. The initial work plan includes priority groups such as textiles, furniture, rubber, mattresses, iron and steel, and aluminum. Therefore, the specific responsibilities of a product become clear when the relevant delegated decision is published.
An independent compliance analysis to assess your product's standing with respect to ESPR and related EU regulations:
Related topic: Digital Product Passport (DPP) And PPWR Packaging Regulations. Overview: Compliance & Due Diligence Consulting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ESPR and the old Eco-design Directive?
The old Eco-design Directive (2009/125/EC) only covered energy-related products. The ESPR ((EU) 2024/1781), however, is a framework regulation that can impose requirements such as durability, repairability, recycled content, and DPP on almost all physical products.
When did the ESPR come into effect?
ESPR entered into force on July 18, 2024. However, specific requirements for product groups are being determined gradually through delegated regulations published subsequently.
Does the ESPR prohibit the destruction of unsold products?
Yes; the ESPR prohibits the destruction of unsold textile and footwear products, with certain exceptions and a staggered schedule.