EU Commission Rolls Out New Ecodesign Regulations to Enhance Circular Economy Practices

In a significant step towards achieving a sustainable and circular economy, the European Commission has announced the adoption of the 2025-2030 work plan under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Energy Labelling Regulation. The new regulations, aimed at boosting the circular economy across the EU, prioritize specific products such as steel, aluminum, textiles (with a focus on apparel), furniture, tires, and mattresses for ecodesign and energy labeling.

According to the Commission, the plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to enhance the durability, repairability, and recyclability of products while improving energy and resource efficiency. Steel, which plays a pivotal role in industrial infrastructure, is among the key materials identified for regulatory action. The European Commission’s focus on steel aims to reduce its environmental impact by introducing measures such as requiring higher recycled content, improving the reusability of products, and ensuring greater transparency regarding environmental footprints through the implementation of Digital Product Passports.

Digital Product Passports and Repairability Scores: Key Innovations for a Circular Economy

A central element of the new regulation is the introduction of the Digital Product Passport, which will provide consumers and businesses with detailed sustainability information, fostering transparency in the supply chain and encouraging circularity. The Commission has also introduced the concept of repairability scores, particularly for consumer electronics and small household appliances. These scores will help consumers make more informed decisions and promote the repair, rather than disposal, of products, thus reducing waste.

Jessika Roswall, the Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy, highlighted the significance of the Ecodesign regulations in driving industrial innovation. “By setting clear priorities, we are providing legal certainty and predictability for the concerned industries, fostering innovation, and driving investment to support the transition to a circular economy,” she said.

The Commission reveals that the new regulations will be enacted through delegated acts, with detailed impact assessments and consultations guiding the process. Ecodesign and energy labeling requirements for steel and other materials will be set based on thorough technical analysis and in-depth consultations. The Commission emphasized that the needs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly micro-enterprises, will be taken into account throughout the implementation process, ensuring tailored support is available.

The ongoing work under the original Ecodesign Directive will continue, particularly for energy-related products. Requirements for these products will evolve, with the final regulations expected by December 31, 2026, the Commission notes.

The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), adopted in July 2024, aims to improve the sustainability of products in the EU by increasing their circularity, energy performance, recyclability, and durability. By harmonizing sustainability requirements at the EU level, the ESPR will enhance the global competitiveness of EU businesses offering sustainable products. It complements the Energy Labelling Framework Regulation (ELFR), enabling consumers to make better-informed choices regarding energy-efficient products.

The EU’s long-term goal is to transition towards a fully circular economy, and the announcement of the 2025-2030 working plan for the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Energy Labelling Regulation is a significant milestone in that journey.

Source: European Commission