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

Overview

On April 16, 2025, the European Commission adopted the Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Working Plan 2025–2030, a pivotal framework under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). This regulation aims to make sustainable products the standard across the EU by setting stringent requirements on product durability, reparability, recyclability, and other eco-friendly criteria through upcoming Delegated Acts.

To support companies in adapting to these new demands, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), in partnership with ERM, has developed a Readiness Assessment Tool. This practical tool enables businesses to evaluate their current availability of essential product data as mandated by ESPR, allowing early identification of compliance gaps and proactive action towards sustainability goals.

Key Features of the Readiness Assessment Tool

• Comprehensive Assessment: Aligns with Articles 5(1), 6, and 7 of the ESPR, focusing on performance and information obligations regarding product sustainability.
• Lifecycle and Product Aspect Focus: Breaks down evaluation criteria by relevant product features and lifecycle stages, offering a holistic view of readiness.
• User-Friendly Interface: Provided as a guided Excel tool, businesses can input product-specific data and instantly receive a high-level readiness overview.
• Forward-Looking Compliance: Prepares companies not only for ESPR mandates but also for the complementary Digital Product Passport (DPP) requirements that track product sustainability performance digitally.
• Adaptability: Future versions will allow filtering and assessment tailored to specific products or groups in line with evolving Delegated Acts.

Strategic Importance

By utilizing this tool, companies can:

• Identify sustainability data gaps before regulatory enforcement.
• Streamline reporting and documentation efforts.
• Enhance product design and innovation focused on eco-efficiency.
• Gain competitive advantage in an increasingly green-conscious market.

Integration with Broader Sustainability Initiatives

WBCSD is extending the tool’s impact within the Circularity Data Exchange (CDX) project, which aims to improve the sharing and accessibility of circular economy data. This initiative supports compliance with ESPR and promotes broader adoption of sustainable business practices through enhanced data transparency.

How to Access the Tool

The Readiness Assessment Tool is available for download via WBCSD’s website. For further information or assistance, interested organizations can contact:

• vandoorne@wbcsd.org
• garin@wbcsd.org

Related Resources from WBCSD

• Packaging Data Exchange: Towards a Global Data Standard (Mar 27, 2025) – Focuses on packaging sustainability and regulatory compliance through standardized data sharing.
• Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) Enabling Solutions Guide (Mar 13, 2025) – Helps companies measure their contribution to circular economy goals.
• Building a Plastics Protocol for Corporate Disclosure (Nov 3, 2023) – Supports transparent communication on plastic impacts for corporate responsibility.

About WBCSD

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development drives sustainable development by aligning corporate strategy with climate action, circular economy, and responsible resource management — empowering companies to deliver competitive and sustainable growth aligned with Vision 2050.

Stay informed and prepared by leveraging tools like WBCSD’s Readiness Assessment Tool to meet the evolving demands of the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, ensuring your products lead in sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.