Jack Shlomi
4 Oct 2023
What is a Digital Product Passport (DPP), and why are they important?
Digital Product Passports are digital records that provide a view of a products journey, characteristics, and environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. DPPs play a pivotal role in promoting responsible production and helping consumers make informed purchase decisions.
The EU is actively pursuing a unified approach to support the circular economy through DPPs. The aim is to align all EU regulations and initiatives related to DPPs with the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and seeks to create standardised rules for access right and system interoperability to support the massive issuing of DPPs by 2027.
What does this mean for manufacturers that sell to customers in the EU?
Manufacturers have a responsibility to make DPPs available to consumers, either directly through the creation of their own DPP in line with EU regulations or by authorising another data operator. Every operator that performs a new operation on the product is responsible for updating the DPP. The operational implementation of DPPs should be trusted only to intermediaries who possess both technical expertise and a thorough understanding of the broader policy objectives of DPPs in support of the circular economy.
How do DPPs benefit manufacturers?
Digital Product Passports (DPPs) enable sustainable production by providing manufacturers insights into materials, energy use, and recyclability, aiding design optimisation and reduced environmental impact. They ensure regulatory compliance, particularly in emerging ESG standards. DPPs indicate maintenance and upgrade opportunities, promoting resource efficiency and product longevity. By enhancing transparency in production and products, DPPs build customer trust and underscore a commitment to sustainability
What are the benefits for consumers?
DPPs serve as a certification of product authenticity, providing consumers with all the information they need to make an informed purchase decision. From helping them understand a products ownership history to learning how to correctly dispose of the products they purchase. DPPs encourage responsible consumption, prolong the lifespan of their products and ensure the products they purchase are genuine and align with their purchase preferences.Â
What data is included in DPPs, and how is it accessed and stored?
DPPs comprise an extensive array of data, including information on durability, reliability, recyclability, energy use, carbon footprint, and more. To ensure reliability and security, DPPs employ decentralized data storage, easily implemented through our platform. Access to this data follows a "need-to-know" principle, with certain information being publicly accessible and others restricted, safeguarding sensitive details.
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Learn more at:Â
EU Health and Digital Executive Agency: hadea.ec.europa.eu/calls-proposals/digital-product-passport_enÂ
GS1 in Europe: gs1.eu/activities/digital-product-passport/Â
CIRPASS DPP Project: cirpassproject.eu/Â
EU Commission Green Deal: ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_22_2013Â