Readiness Assessment Tool: Preparing for the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)

Overview: Advancing EU Sustainability Through ESPR

On April 16, 2025, the European Commission adopted the Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Working Plan 2025–2030, a strategic framework targeting the enhancement of sustainability in product design and use. Central to this initiative is the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), which aims to standardize stringent sustainability requirements across the EU. Key focuses of ESPR include improving product durability, reparability, and recyclability, propelling the transition towards sustainable consumption.

Introducing the Readiness Assessment Tool

To support businesses in adapting to ESPR mandates, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), in partnership with ERM, has developed a Readiness Assessment Tool. This practical, Excel-based tool enables companies to:

• Assess availability and quality of critical product information aligned with ESPR’s demands.
• Identify compliance gaps related to sustainability criteria covering product lifecycle stages.
• Prepare proactively for the upcoming regulatory requirements, including the Digital Product Passport (DPP).

The tool breaks down ESPR requirements as stipulated in Articles 5–7, guiding users through both performance and information readiness evaluations. Future versions will incorporate filters aligned with emerging Delegated Acts, allowing product-specific assessments.

Supporting Circularity and Data Exchange

WBCSD is further advancing efforts through the Circularity Data Exchange (CDX), which aims to enhance the exchange and accessibility of circularity data crucial for ESPR compliance. This collaboration will facilitate transparent data sharing across value chains, reinforcing sustainable product development and regulatory adherence.

How to Access and Support

• The Readiness Assessment Tool is freely downloadable via WBCSD’s platform.
• For assistance, contact:
  • vandoorne@wbcsd.org
  • garin@wbcsd.org

Related Initiatives and Resources

• Packaging Data Exchange: Toward global data standards for packaging sustainability (March 2025).
• Circular Transition Indicators (CTI): Tools for measuring corporate circularity contributions (March 2025).
• Plastics Disclosure Protocol: Enhancing corporate transparency on plastic impacts (November 2023).

For businesses committed to sustainability, leveraging the WBCSD Readiness Assessment Tool represents a critical step toward staying ahead of evolving EU product regulations, embedding circular economy principles, and meeting rising stakeholder expectations.

Stay informed and empowered—prepare your products today for a sustainable tomorrow.

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