Advancing Sustainability through the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)

Introduction to ESPR and the Ecodesign Forum

On 19–20 February 2025, Brussels hosted the inaugural meeting of the Ecodesign Forum, a pivotal platform designed to drive the implementation of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) alongside related energy labelling initiatives. The Forum convenes nearly 130 experts from EU Member States, industry, NGOs, and academia to ensure transparency and inclusivity in advancing sustainable product policies in the EU.

Objectives of the ESPR

The ESPR aims to:

• Enhance the EU single market by harmonizing sustainability rules across Member States.
• Promote circular economy principles to reduce environmental impact.
• Lower overall energy consumption of products.
• Boost industrial competitiveness by encouraging eco-innovation.
• Establish consistent regulations that eliminate trade barriers and provide a level playing field.

Forum Composition and Role

Members were selected based on expertise in priority products featured in the ESPR and Commission Joint Research Centre reports. The group maintains a balanced representation across sectors and continues to evolve with ongoing applications for membership.

The Forum’s responsibilities include:

• Advising on ESPR implementation.
• Development of rules on energy labelling.
• Consulting on delegated and implementing acts, such as those addressing the destruction of unsold consumer products.

Priority Products and Measures

The Forum is debating the first Ecodesign Working Plan which outlines priority products and related measures for the next five years. Proposed priorities include:

• Textiles (apparel)
• Furniture
• Steel and aluminium
• Tyres
• Energy-related products from previous Ecodesign and energy labelling plans

Horizontal measures focus on:

• Repairability, including scoring systems.
• Recyclability and recycled content requirements for electric and electronic equipment.

Upcoming Regulatory Action

The European Commission plans to:

• Adopt the first ESPR and Energy Labelling Working Plan by April 2025.
• Finalize acts to prevent the destruction of unsold apparel and footwear by July 2025.
• Develop mandatory Green Public Procurement criteria to stimulate demand for sustainable products.

New ecodesign and labelling rules will be formulated via extensive studies and impact assessments, with a commitment to proportionality and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Key Statements

European Commissioner for Environment Jessika Roswall emphasized ESPR as a driver of innovation, sustainability, and growth, highlighting its role in building a circular economy benefiting both environment and industry.

Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration in achieving practical outcomes that reduce waste and improve resource efficiency.

Additional Resources

For in-depth information, current documents, and ongoing updates, stakeholders can access:

• Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation – EUR-Lex
• First Ecodesign Forum agenda
• Register of Commission Expert Groups
• Official ESPR website

Publication Date: 19 February 2025
Author: Directorate-General for Environment, European Commission

By harmonizing sustainability requirements and fostering stakeholder cooperation, the ESPR represents a landmark EU initiative to shape a low-impact, circular economy that benefits consumers, businesses, and the planet alike.

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