The textile industry has been identified as a key sector in the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan, with the Digital Product Passport (DPP) positioned as a fundamental technology for this initiative.
“A well-designed Digital Product Passport will be an invaluable tool for support as it will enable the creation of more sustainable and circular materials and products by tracking how they are made throughout the supply chain. It will also support consumers in making informed decisions based on sustainability criteria, which could be crucial in building Europe’s circular economy.”
– Eliot Whittington, Policy Director
At the EU’s online information session on May 22, 2024, details about the anticipated features of the DPP were shared. The Digital Product Passport will include data on:
- Technical performance
- Environmental sustainability performance
- Circularity aspects (durability, repairability, etc.)
- Legal compliance
- Product-related information (e.g., manuals, other labels)
Additional DPP requirements:
- Decentralized data storage approach.
- Unique linkage to a product.
- Access to data will be based on a “need-to-know” principle.
- Electronic access to information to facilitate decision-making.
Design Requirements:
Durability and quality: Products must be durable and less prone to wear and tear.
Repairability: Components must be easily replaceable.
Recycling: Restriction of mixed fibers to facilitate recycling.
Sustainable materials: Preference for organic or recycled fibers.
Transparency and Information:
DPP labels: Details on product composition, origin, and recycling instructions.
Circularity and Waste Reduction:
Collection and recycling: Mandatory participation in recycling systems.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Responsibility for the entire product lifecycle.
Environmental Footprint:
Reduction in water and energy use: Focus on sustainable production methods.
Limits on emissions and chemicals: Setting thresholds for environmentally-friendly production.
Innovation and Investments:
Development of new sustainable materials and technologies.
Investments in research and development to achieve compliance.
Financial Impact:
Initial investments: High implementation costs but long-term savings.
Non-compliance penalties: Risk of financial losses for companies that fail to comply.
Market Opportunities:
Enhanced brand reputation: Strengthening consumer trust.
Opening new markets: Focusing on sustainable practices increases export competitiveness.
Supply Chain Adjustments:
Transparency: Increased visibility through digital tools.
Supplier compliance: Encouraging sustainability throughout the supply chain.
- 2024–2025: Preparatory phase – drafting measures and consultations.
- 2025–2026: Adoption of measures for the textile sector.
- 2026 onwards: Full implementation and oversight.
The implementation of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) marks a milestone for the textile industry in Europe. Its introduction not only promotes more sustainable practices but also offers opportunities for greater transparency, innovation, and consumer trust. While initial adjustments require investments and process changes, the long-term benefits in terms of waste reduction, brand strengthening, and opening new markets outweigh the challenges.
Contact us for additional information and advice on how to adapt to the new DPP requirements and secure a competitive edge in the market!
