**Ecodesign for a Sustainable Future: The New European Regulation**
On July 18, 2024, the Regulation on Ecodesign for Sustainable Products (ESPR) came into effect, a fundamental measure of the European Union’s plan to promote more sustainable and circular products. In a context where products and their usage have a significant environmental impact, it is essential to understand the implications of this new regulation.
Managing consumption within the European Union can significantly contribute to climate change and pollution. With the ESPR, the Union is committed to sending strong and clear signals to reduce these negative effects, fitting into a package of central measures to achieve the objectives of the 2020 Circular Economy Action Plan. These measures aim not only to improve energy efficiency but also to double the circularity rate of material use by 2030.
The regulation aims to significantly increase the circularity, energy performance, and other aspects related to the environmental sustainability of products on the European market. But what exactly does a ‘sustainable product’ mean? Generally, such a product has some of the following characteristics:
1. Uses less energy and has a longer lifespan.
2. Is easily repairable, and parts can be easily disassembled for reuse.
3. Contains a reduced number of hazardous substances.
4. Is easily recyclable and contains a higher percentage of recycled content.
5. Has a lower carbon and environmental footprint throughout its entire lifecycle.
One of the most innovative developments anticipated by the ESPR is the introduction of a ‘digital product passport.’ This tool establishes mandatory criteria for green public procurement and creates a framework to prevent the destruction of unsold products. These reforms are landmark trends to ensure greater sustainability.
To ensure that products meet the requirements of the ESPR, notified bodies will be responsible for their assessment. These bodies are compliance assessment entities that have received official approval from their national authority to carry out conformity assessment procedures under the ESPR. Accreditation by the national accreditation body is the primary means of demonstrating the competence of notified bodies, according to European regulations.
Accreditation granted to assessment bodies will ensure that they can verify the compliance of products with sustainability, energy efficiency, and circular economy standards. This aspect is crucial for achieving the objectives of the European Green Deal, which aims to reduce waste, promote resource efficiency, and minimize emissions.
But what does all this mean for consumers?
Essentially, the new regulation will allow consumers to use their products for longer periods, achieving economic savings. The ability to repair products without having to completely replace them represents a significant advantage, while also reducing waste of resources and energy in the production of equipment that would otherwise quickly end up in landfills. Additionally, the ESPR provides more information related to the energy consumption of each product, enabling consumers to make more informed choices.
With the increasing environmental awareness, consumers are more inclined to choose products that not only meet their needs but are also sustainable. This new regulation not only promotes more responsible consumption but also fosters a cultural shift towards adopting more eco-friendly and sustainable habits.
In conclusion, the ESPR represents a significant step towards a more circular and sustainable economy, promoting innovation and encouraging the market to offer environmentally friendly products. We are all called to play an active role in this change. We invite you to follow us on our social media channels to explore the topic further and stay updated.
