This plan outlines the products that will be prioritized for the introduction of ecodesign and energy labelling requirements over the next five years, aiming to promote sustainable, repairable, circular, and energy-efficient products across Europe. The initiative supports broader goals under the Clean Industrial Deal and the Competitiveness Compass.
Key product groups identified for these requirements include steel and aluminium, textiles (particularly apparel), furniture, tyres, and mattresses. These were selected for their potential contribution to the circular economy.
Harmonizing sustainability standards at the EU level will strengthen the single market, prevent trade barriers, enhance fair competition, reduce administrative burdens, and bolster the global competitiveness of businesses offering sustainable products.
Additionally, the Commission will implement cross-sector measures, such as repairability requirements for consumer electronics and small household appliances. This will include introducing a repairability score for certain products and setting recyclability standards for electrical and electronic equipment.
The selection of products in this work plan was the result of an inclusive process involving stakeholders and Member States, grounded in a detailed technical analysis aligned with the EU's climate, environmental, and energy efficiency goals. Consultations were conducted extensively through platforms like the Ecodesign Forum.
Future ecodesign and energy labelling measures for these products will address:
Product performance: covering aspects like minimum durability, energy and resource efficiency, availability of spare parts, or minimum recycled content;
Product information: including data on carbon and environmental footprints, to be shared through tools such as the Digital Product Passport or, where applicable, the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL).
The Commission will ensure that the specific needs of SMEs, particularly micro-enterprises and small mid-cap companies, are considered, offering tailored support during the implementation of these requirements.
