Brussels, April 7th, 2025 – The European Commission has presented the first set of working plans for the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), detailing the priority product groups for the next 3-5 years. This initiative is a key step in the EU’s broader strategy to promote a circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle.
Prioritized product categories
The working plan emphasize several product categories, including both final and intermediate products:
- Final products: Textiles/apparel, furniture, tires, and mattresses are among the final products prioritized. The inclusion of mattresses was notable, as it was added following strong stakeholder support. Other electronics and energy-related products will also be included, with a transition from the existing Ecodesign Directive.
- Intermediate products: Iron & steel and aluminum have been identified as key intermediate products. The focus on these materials acknowledges their significant climate, energy, and environmental impacts, as well as the potential for substantial improvements.
Considerations and exclusions
Certain product categories, such as footwear, detergents, paints, and lubricants, have not been prioritized in the first round. The Commission indicated that this decision was based on assessments of their potential for improvement and overall impact, and these product groups may be considered in future revisions of the working plans. Chemicals are another category that will be assessed for inclusion in future plans.
Stakeholder engagement and implementation
The development and implementation of the ESPR working plan involve a multi-stage process, including stakeholder consultations, impact assessments, and detailed preparatory phases for each delegated act (legal acts that the Commission can adopt to supplement or amend non-essential parts of EU laws). The emphasis is on balancing environmental objectives with economic considerations, ensuring that the measures do not impose disproportionate costs.
Industry impact and the role of Digital Product Passports
The selected product categories represent a substantial share of the EU market, with significant environmental footprints. The ESPR is expected to drive innovation and create new business opportunities, as companies adapt to the new requirements for sustainability and circularity.
Kezzler’s perspective
Kezzler’s technology aligns closely with the objectives of the ESPR, particularly in providing the means for traceability and transparency through Digital Product Passports. By enabling products to be tracked throughout their lifecycle, Kezzler supports the goals of the ESPR to make products more durable, repairable, and recyclable.
Looking ahead
The Commission will continue to engage with stakeholders and monitor the effectiveness of the working plan. The plan is subject to review and revision to ensure it remains aligned with the EU’s environmental, climate, and energy objectives.
You might also find this interesting
- Our white paper “Digital Product Passport: From Concept to Compliance”
- Our work in Cirpass-2
- Learn more about R-strategies in the circular economy
- Register for our upcoming webinar “The minimum requirements of DPP for my product to enter the EU from 2027/2028”
