Preparing for the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR): WBCSD’s Readiness Assessment Tool

On April 16, 2025, the European Commission adopted a new sustainability plan. This plan sets clear product rules. It ties strict energy labelling to product design. The rule, called ESPR, makes sustainable products common in the EU.

Key ESPR Focus Areas

The ESPR makes clear rules. It sets targets for product durability, reparability, recyclability, and product information. New Delegated Acts will soon list the detailed criteria that all businesses must meet.

Introducing the WBCSD Readiness Assessment Tool

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and ERM built an Excel tool. This tool helps companies get ready for ESPR rules. Each word and value in the tool connects directly with the next, so its purpose stays clear.

Features and Benefits:

• Evaluates product information. The tool checks if data meets ESPR rules.
• Identifies gaps. It marks weak points for early improvements.
• Covers performance and disclosure. The tool follows Articles 6, 7, and 5(1) of the ESPR.
• Supports future changes. Planned updates will allow filtering by product groups as new rules come.
• Prepares for digital passports. It helps companies ready themselves for Digital Product Passport (DPP) reporting.

Strategic Next Steps: Circularity Data Exchange (CDX)

WBCSD now works on the Circularity Data Exchange (CDX) platform. This platform links product data more closely. It shares information so companies can meet ESPR changes. The method supports a circular economy with clear, direct connections between data points.

How to Access the Tool and Support

We offer the tool for download to help companies plan ahead:

• Download the Excel Readiness Assessment Tool from WBCSD.
• For support, email:
  • vandoorne@wbcsd.org
  • garin@wbcsd.org

Why This Matters for Businesses

Global rules now tighten fast. Early adoption of simple, connected standards gives businesses an edge. WBCSD’s tool links requirements and actions clearly. This reduces risks and makes sustainable design more natural.

Stay informed on circular economy practices and updates through WBCSD’s resources, reports, and sector projects.

Related WBCSD Insights and Resources:

• Packaging data exchange – Towards a global data standard (March 2025)
• Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) Enabling Solutions Guide (March 2025)
• Building a plastics protocol for corporate plastics disclosure (Nov 2023)

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