On 16 April, the European Commission adopted the 2025–2030 work plan under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Energy Labelling Framework Regulation (ELFR). The plan sets out the list of products that will be prioritised for the introduction of ecodesign and energy labelling requirements over the next five years, aiming to promote more sustainable, repairable, circular and energy-efficient products across Europe. The work plan also establishes deadlines for the adoption of delegated acts regulating each prioritised product category: iron and steel (2026), aluminium (2027), textiles (2027), tyres (2027), furniture (2028) and mattresses (2029).

This new work plan builds on the progress made with sixteen energy-related products —such as dishwashers, electric motors, electric vehicle chargers and screens, among others— under the 2022–2024 ecodesign and energy labelling work plan.

The new work plan places a strong emphasis on materials for a very clear reason: “In recent years, a lot of effort has gone into improving energy efficiency, and as energy efficiency has improved, the impact of materials has become more apparent,” notes Carles Gasol, Business Development Director at inèdit. However, “the durability of products will need to go hand in hand with energy efficiency,” he points out, “because it would make little sense for a product to be highly durable and repairable if its energy consumption increases significantly over time.”

Ecodesign, energy labelling, repairability and recyclability requirements

The future ecodesign and energy labelling requirements will consider both the product’s performance —such as minimum durability, minimum resource and energy efficiency, availability of spare parts, or minimum recycled material content— and/or the information provided about the product itself, including key aspects such as the carbon and environmental footprint of products. This information will mainly be available through the Digital Product Passport or, for products requiring an energy label, through the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL).

In addition, in 2027 the European Commission will introduce repairability requirements for products such as consumer electronics and small household appliances. A repairability index will be implemented for products with the greatest potential for repair, and in 2029 recyclability requirements will be introduced for electrical and electronic equipment.

These measures aim to make it easier for consumers to choose more sustainable and energy-efficient products. Furthermore, according to the European Commission, “harmonising product sustainability requirements across Europe will strengthen the single market, prevent trade barriers, improve the level playing field, reduce administrative burdens and enhance the global competitiveness of companies offering sustainable products.”

At inèdit, we have over sixteen years of experience in product and service ecodesign. We offer solutions to optimise materials, extend product lifespan, increase recyclability, optimise processes, create modular products, and transform business models to enhance clients’ value propositions and market positioning.