What is a Digital Product Passport (DPP)?

The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a digital document mandated by the EU ESPR (Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation). It contains environmental, traceability, and compliance information about a product, accessible via a QR code.

When does the DPP become mandatory?

The textile sector is first in line, with a mandate expected for 2027. Batteries, electronics, and other sectors will follow progressively.

Do I need technical skills to create a DPP?

No. DPPify is designed as a no-code tool. The guided form walks you through each step, and the completion score shows you in real time what's left to fill in.

Is data hosted in Europe?

Yes. All data is hosted on European servers, in compliance with GDPR. No data is transferred outside the EU.

Can I import my existing product catalog?

Yes. The smart CSV import automatically recognizes your columns (French or English headers) and maps the data to the appropriate DPP fields.

ESPR Regulation: What Changes for Manufacturers and Retailers

ESPR in brief

The ESPR regulation (Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation) was adopted by the European Parliament and Council in 2024. It replaces the 2009 Ecodesign Directive, which only covered energy-related products.

The major difference: ESPR now applies to virtually all physical products placed on the European market, with notable exceptions for food, medicines, and vehicles (covered by other regulations).

The 3 pillars of ESPR

1. Ecodesign requirements

Products must meet performance criteria in terms of:

Durability and reliability
Repairability and ease of maintenance
Recyclability and use of recycled materials
Energy efficiency and carbon footprint
Absence of harmful substances

2. The Digital Product Passport (DPP)

Every covered product must be accompanied by a DPP accessible via a data carrier (QR code, NFC, RFID). This passport centralises all regulatory and technical information.

3. Ban on destroying unsold goods

ESPR prohibits the destruction of certain categories of unsold products, notably textiles and footwear. Companies must demonstrate alternative solutions (donations, recycling, reuse).

Who is affected?

Those affected by ESPR include:

Manufacturers placing products on the EU market
Importers introducing products from third countries
Distributors offering products for sale
Online marketplaces facilitating sales

Important: even companies outside the EU are affected if they sell on the European market.

Application timeline

ESPR enters into force progressively:

2024: Adoption of the framework regulation
2025-2026: Publication of first delegated acts (batteries, textiles)
2027: First DPP obligations for batteries
2028-2030: Progressive extension to other categories

Each product category will have a specific delegated act detailing exact requirements.

How to prepare now?

Map your products

Identify which categories of your products will be covered first. Prioritise your compliance efforts accordingly.

Structure your data

The DPP requires structured data. Start organising your product information in an exploitable format: composition, origin, certifications, end-of-life instructions.

Involve your supply chain

The DPP requires data from the entire value chain. Engage with your suppliers to obtain the necessary information.

Adopt the right tools

Platforms like DPPify allow you to create and manage your DPPs without technical development. Data is structured according to GS1 and UNTP standards, ensuring compliance.

Planned sanctions

Member states will define sanctions, but the regulation stipulates they must be effective, proportionate, and dissuasive. Market surveillance authorities may:

Prohibit the placing on the market of non-compliant products
Order the withdrawal of products already on sale
Impose administrative fines

Conclusion

ESPR represents a structural change for European industry. Rather than viewing it as a constraint, proactive companies see it as an opportunity for differentiation and transparency. Starting preparation now will give you a significant competitive advantage.