When discussing Digital Product Passports (DPPs), the conversation often revolves around compliance, data standards, and system integration. However, one essential stakeholder must not be overlooked: the end user.
The European Union’s goal with DPPs is not only to increase supply chain transparency and support circular business models – but also to empower consumers. For the first time, every product will have its own digital identity, accessible directly by the user.
So what does this mean in practice?
For end users, the DPP is accessible via a QR code printed or engraved on the product, its label, or its packaging. By scanning the code with a smartphone, users are directed to a digital interface (usually a web app) that displays detailed product information.
This means no more searching for printed manuals or product specs. Everything is available instantly, in a structured and user-friendly format.
The content of a DPP varies depending on the product category and the relevant EU regulation (e.g. ESPR, Battery Regulation, Packaging Regulation). However, consumers can typically access:
Material composition – what the product is made of
Sustainability claims – including recycled content or carbon footprint
Origin of raw materials – relevant for sectors like textiles or electronics
Repairability – availability of spare parts and repair instructions
Recyclability and end-of-life instructions – how to dispose of the product
Certifications – such as eco-labels, chemical safety, or fair trade
Importantly, the DPP is non-promotional – it cannot be used to push ads or greenwashing. The data must be verifiable, standardized, and transparent.
Digital Product Passports give consumers real visibility into the products they buy. This has multiple benefits:
Informed purchasing decisions – based on origin, sustainability, or lifespan
Easier repair and reuse – prolonging product lifetime
Confidence in eco-labels and green claims – thanks to traceable data
Contribution to circularity – knowing how to return, reuse, or recycle
This level of transparency is a game-changer for responsible consumption – and a critical tool for rebuilding trust between brands and users.
DPPs are being piloted in multiple sectors across the EU, with mandatory implementation starting in 2027 (e.g., for batteries). However, several manufacturers are already offering QR-enabled product data experiences – paving the way for broader adoption.
Over time, users will come to expect this level of digital transparency – just like they expect nutrition labels or user manuals today.
For end users, the DPP is more than a compliance tool – it’s a window into the product’s identity. It allows people to make better choices, understand what they own, and engage with products more responsibly.
At NOS, we build DPP solutions that are not only technically compliant but also intuitive and user-oriented. We help companies create digital passports that serve both regulatory and consumer expectations.
Want to explore how your products can communicate transparently with end users? Contact us at info@nos.hr.
