The EU’s Digital Product Passport (DPP) is set to revolutionize the construction industry. As part of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), the DPP aims to promote circularity, traceability, and transparency throughout a product’s entire lifecycle. For building materials, this means that detailed information about origin, composition, environmental impact, and end-of-life handling will become digitally accessible and standardized across the EU market.
What it means for the construction industry
From 2026 onward, construction products sold within the EU must carry a Digital Product Passport. This includes core materials such as concrete, insulation, timber. And notably steel and aluminum, both newly prioritized in the EU’s 2025–2030 ESPR Work Plan due to their high impact and circular potential.
The DPP will provide structured, real-time access to data on materials used, sourcing methods, carbon footprint, recyclability, durability, and compliance certifications. Accessible via QR codes or digital tags, the passport will live within the digital twin of the building, enabling informed decision-making at every stage – from planning and procurement to renovation and demolition.
Data infrastructure and the role of PIM systems
To manage this data complexity, construction product manufacturers must invest in strong data infrastructure – especially Product Information Management (PIM) systems. A PIM acts as a central hub that collects, standardizes, and distributes technical, environmental, and compliance data across all touchpoints.
With a PIM in place, companies can:
- Ensure consistency and accuracy of product information
- Automate data sharing into DPP platforms and BIM models
- Manage complex product variants and media formats
- Enable faster, more compliant market access
Without this infrastructure, manually managing DPP data across thousands of products and components becomes nearly impossible.
Timeline right now for DPP in construction
- End of 2024: EUCommission releases de final DPPformats and data requirements
- End of 2025: Businesses must have DPP-ready infrastructure in place
- 2026 onward: Full implementation and enforcement across construction materials
Beyond compliance there are strategic opportunities
Complying with DPP regulations is mandatory – but the strategic advantages go much further. Companies that act early and structure their data intelligently will gain:
- Preferred status in public tenders and sustainability-focused projects
- Improved brand trust through verified transparency
- Operational efficiency via streamlined data workflows
- Alignment with EU circular economy goals, decarbonization targets, and ESG reporting frameworks
The way forward
To navigate this shift, construction businesses must:
- Audit current data systems and compliance status
- Establish robust product data management strategies
- Train teams and partners in DPP workflows
- Collaborate closely with digital coordinators and BIM managers
The Digital Product Passport isn’t just a regulatory checkbox – it’s the foundation for a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient construction sector. By acting now, companies can turn compliance into competitive edge and lead the way in Europe’s sustainable transformation.
Read all our posts about the impact of the Digital Product Passport on the construction and building materials industry.
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The Digital Product Passport
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