The goal of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) is to promote sustainability by ensuring greater transparency throughout a product’s lifecycle, reducing waste, and strengthening the circular economy. Specifically, the DPP contributes to:

• Sustainability: Supports recycling, repair, and extended product lifespan
• Lifecycle tracking: Provides insights into materials, origin, and environmental impact
• Data transparency: Ensures easy access to relevant product data for all stakeholders
• Improved customer experience: Makes it easier to make informed and sustainable choices
• Ownership verification: Documents product ownership and origin

A good starting point is to map your product data and identify the right digital tools to support your transition. By investing in systems like Product Information Management (PIM) and working closely with suppliers, you can streamline the process and ensure your business is ready for a more sustainable and future-proof market.

The key product information included in the DPP covers basic data such as product name, functions, model, and warranty. In addition, it requires detailed data on raw materials, components, repair options, and sustainability information - from production through after-sales service.

A PIM system consolidates all product data in one place by collecting information from suppliers, manufacturers, and internal systems. Suppliers contribute data on raw materials and components, while manufacturers add information about the production process and product specifications. Internal systems, such as ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), ensure that the data remains current and can be used across departments. In this way, PIM creates a consistent and reliable source of product information that supports everything from inventory management to marketing and sales.

Product Information Management (PIM) is essential for managing large volumes of data efficiently. Many companies still rely on manual solutions like spreadsheets or other unstructured systems, which often lead to errors and missed information in data handling. A PIM system centralizes and structures all product information on a single platform, making it easy to organize, update, and share data across the business. This not only improves data quality but also saves valuable time - allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks rather than correcting or searching for information.

Data in the DPP will be accessible RFID, QR codes, or NFC technology. By scanning the code or using a compatible device, businesses, authorities, and consumers can access key product information such as materials, origin, and sustainability data.

Companies are actively working to meet upcoming legal requirements, as more sectors will gradually fall under new rules designed to promote transparency and sustainability.

Batteries

In 2020, the EU initiated a review of existing battery regulations. As of 2024 , new sustainability requirements will take effect, covering carbon footprint, recyclability, battery performance, and durability.

By mid-2025, stricter collection targets will be introduced under an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. Data collection for portable batteries must reach 63% by 2027, with a 50% lithium recycling rate.

In 2028, new targets for batteries from light transport vehicles such as e-bikes and electric scooters, will be set at 51% collection.

The targets for 2030 include a collection rate of 73% for portable batteries , while batteries from light transport vehicles must reach 61%. Lithium recycling is expected to rise to 80% by 2031 .

Textiles in the EU

The EU has set an ambitious roadmap to make the textile industry more sustainable. In 2020, the European Commission introduced its Strategy for Sustainable Textiles, which outlines that by 2030, textile products should:

• Have a longer lifespan
• Be recyclable
• Contain a higher share of recycled fibers

The strategy also includes regulations on eco-design, the Digital Product Passport, and extended producer responsibility , along with a call for companies to reduce overproduction and minimize environmental impact.

Construction materials

The EU’s regulations on construction materials aim to ensure free movement within the internal market, while reinforcing requirements for sustainability and digitalization.

Key areas covered include:

• Fire resistance – a building’s ability to withstand and contain fire
• Thermal insulation - how well materials insulate against heat and cold
• Sound insulation - how materials reduce noise levels

Upcoming revisions will require manufacturers to document the environmental impact of their products and promote the use of recyclable materials. A final date for the revised regulation has yet to be confirmed.

Additional key DPP timeline dates

• April 19, 2025 - The EU adopts the first official work plan for DPP requirements
• December 2025 – European standardization bodies deliver technical standards for the DPP system
• July 19, 2026 – The EU launches a digital system for storing all DPP-related data

The final regulation for DPP is expected to be completed in 2024. The EU will develop a shared digital system that sets standardized requirements across sectors and products.

This system is expected to be available between 2026 and 2027, allowing companies to register and share product data in compliance with the new requirements.

Several stakeholders will have access to - and benefit from the DPP. The key actors include:

• Customers – gain transparency about product sustainability and lifespan
• Manufacturers – ensure compliance with requirements and document product data
• Importers & distributors – enable traceability within the supply chain
• Producers – integrate DPP information into product development
• Recyclers – gain access to material data to facilitate easier recycling
• Customs authorities – monitor compliance with regulations during import/export
• Civil society organizations – monitor and contribute to sustainability initiatives
• Trade unions – ensure workplace safety and production standards
• European Commission – develops and enforces the DPP regulation
• Market surveillance authorities – ensure proper implementation of the requirements