Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)
EU regulation establishing a framework for setting ecodesign requirements applicable to nearly all products placed on the EU market.
The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR, Regulation 2024/1781) establishes a framework for setting ecodesign requirements applicable to virtually all physical products placed on the EU market (except food, medicines and vehicles).
The ESPR replaces and significantly expands the Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC (which only covered energy-related products). Potential requirements cover:
- Durability: resistance, reliability, upgradability
- Repairability: ease of repair, spare parts availability
- Recyclability: ease of disassembly, material choices
- Recycled content: minimum rates of recycled materials
- Environmental footprint: carbon, water, pollution
- Energy and resource efficiency
The ESPR also serves as the legal basis for the Digital Product Passport (DPP) and the ban on destruction of unsold goods (textiles and footwear first).
The European Commission will adopt delegated acts by product category, defining specific requirements. The first products targeted are iron and steel, aluminium, textiles, furniture, tyres, detergents and paints.