As the European Union prepares for the rollout of Digital Product Passports (DPP), one concept is gaining particular importance in expert discussions – the semantic model. Although often mentioned in technical documents and conferences, many stakeholders are still unclear on what it is and why it matters.
Let’s clarify what a semantic model is, how it fits into the DPP ecosystem, and why it is a key component for interoperability and data reliability.
In simple terms, a semantic model is a structured way of organizing data so that the meaning of each piece of information is clearly defined and machine-readable.
For example, if a product passport includes data such as:
“Material: recycled aluminium”
“Carbon footprint: 3.2 kg CO₂”
…a semantic model ensures that:
“Material” always refers to the same concept across systems
“Recycled aluminium” is classified the same way in all databases
“Carbon footprint” is linked to a recognized unit (kg CO₂) and calculation method
Semantic models are typically based on ontologies and use data formats such as RDF (Resource Description Framework) or JSON-LD, which allow computers to understand relationships between concepts—not just strings of text.
The DPP is intended to be a dynamic, machine-readable passport that follows a product throughout its lifecycle. In this context, semantic consistency is essential for:
Interoperability between systems – DPPs will be created, accessed and updated by different platforms (manufacturers, regulators, recyclers, retailers, etc.)
Reliable data exchange – Everyone must “speak the same language” so there is no room for misinterpretation
Automated data processing – Without a shared model, automation across the supply chain would be impossible
Compliance with EU standards – New technical requirements (e.g., CIRPASS-2, ISO 25534-1) require semantic alignment
Without a semantic model, the DPP would become just another static PDF or data silo.
Semantic models are usually developed through collaboration between experts, industry associations, and standardization bodies. In the EU, this work is led by initiatives such as:
CEN-CENELEC JTC 24 (focused on interoperability standards)
CIRPASS and CIRPASS-2 (which define semantic structures for DPP systems)
UNECE/ISO symposia (which promote international standardization)
Each sector—textile, batteries, electronics, furniture—will have its own semantic model adapted to its specific data needs, but aligned with shared principles.
At NOS, we recognize the central role of semantic models in building scalable and future-proof DPP systems. That’s why our solution supports:
Integration with standard ontologies (e.g., Product Category Rules)
Use of RDF/JSON-LD formats for data exchange
Collaboration with CIRPASS-2 and Circular-Data.org in developing semantic use cases
By aligning with EU expectations from the start, we ensure that our clients—SMEs and industry leaders alike—are ready for what comes next.
A semantic model is not just a technical detail—it’s the foundation that makes Digital Product Passports functional, interoperable and trustworthy. For companies that want to ensure long-term compliance and efficient data exchange, investing in semantically aligned systems is no longer optional. It’s a necessity.
If you’d like to find out whether your product data is semantically ready for the future, get in touch with us.
Contact us at: info@nos.hr
