What is the Digital Product Passport
The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a pivotal component of the European Commission's Sustainable Product Regulation (ESPR), adopted on March 30, 2022. This regulation, introduced under the framework of the EU Green Deal, represents a significant step towards achieving the ambitious goal of making the European Union the first climate-neutral region by 2050.
The Role of the Digital Product Passport
The DPP is designed to provide comprehensive and accessible information about products throughout their lifecycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. It serves multiple purposes:
1. Enhanced Traceability and Transparency
- Supply Chain Visibility:The DPP tracks products from their origin through the entire supply chain, ensuring transparency about the sources of raw materials, manufacturing processes, and logistics.
- Consumer Information:By accessing the DPP, consumers can make informed choices about the products they purchase, knowing details about the product’s sustainability, ethical standards, and environmental impact.
2. Promotion of Sustainability
- Environmental Impact: The DPP includes data on the product’s carbon footprint, energy consumption, and environmental certifications, encouraging manufacturers to adopt greener practices.
- Circular Economy: By detailing the materials and components of products, the DPP facilitates recycling, reuse, and refurbishment, supporting the circular economy and reducing waste.
3. Regulatory Compliance
- EU Standards: The DPP helps businesses comply with EU regulations related to product safety, environmental protection, and corporate social responsibility.
- Market Access: Products with a DPP may gain easier access to the EU market, as they demonstrate compliance with the stringent sustainability criteria set by the ESPR.