In a decisive move to lead the global transition towards a circular economy, the European Commission has adopted its 2025–2030 working plan under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Energy Labelling Regulation.
This ambitious strategy will set new sustainability and energy efficiency standards for key product categories, ensuring that sustainable products become the norm across the European Union.
By targeting resource-intensive sectors and aligning with the EU’s green and digital priorities, the plan marks a major step forward in making products more repairable, recyclable, and environmentally friendly – while boosting the competitiveness of European businesses.
Stéphane Séjourné, Executive Vice-President for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, commented: “Today marks a pivotal moment as the Commission is delivering on implementing the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.
“This initiative builds on a 20-year global and successful ecodesign path. It will deliver significant benefits for all Europeans, create opportunities for businesses and employment, and protect the planet through proven impact on reducing emissions.
“These ecodesign rules apply to all products placed on our single market, regardless of their origin-country, ensuring that each of them meets the European Union’s ambitious goals. Together, let’s champion a thriving, circular economy.”
A strategic push for circular products
The new working plan, adopted in July 2024, outlines priority product groups that will be subject to new ecodesign and energy labelling requirements over the next five years.
These include steel, aluminium, textiles (especially clothing), furniture, tyres, and mattresses. All were chosen for their high potential to support a circular economy and reduce environmental impact.
By targeting these sectors, the EU aims to boost the availability of sustainable products that are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and easier to repair or recycle.
Stronger single market, smarter products
The ESPR will establish harmonised sustainability standards across EU member states, helping to eliminate trade barriers and create a level playing field.
By standardising requirements it also lowers administrative burdens and enhances the global competitiveness of businesses offering sustainable products.
A key innovation includes the rollout of a Digital Product Passport, which will provide detailed product data such as environmental footprint, recyclability, and repairability.
Products like consumer electronics and small household appliances will also be rated using a new repairability score, making it easier for consumers to choose eco-conscious options.
Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, added: “This initiative marks a major step toward making the circular economy a reality on the ground and sustainable products the norm across the EU.
“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.
“This will help close the innovation gap, develop lead markets for sustainable products, and accelerate the decarbonisation of key value chains to reinforce the EU’s competitiveness.”
SMEs and stakeholders at the heart of the transition
The Commission emphasises that developing future ecodesign and labelling rules will involve ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, including industry experts and EU member states.
Special attention will be given to the challenges faced by SMEs and micro-enterprises, with dedicated support mechanisms to help them adapt.
Requirements will be introduced progressively via delegated acts, supported by in-depth research and impact assessments.
Some energy-related products will continue under existing ecodesign rules until the end of 2026, ensuring a smooth transition.
With this ambitious plan, the EU is not just regulating – it’s setting a global benchmark for the future of sustainable products.
