Magazine articles

Digital product passport: New era of compliance and sustainability

Companies that manufacture, distribute or import goods in the EU must implement the digital product passport (DPP) in future.

4 October 2025

(Image: Shutterstock/ImageFlow)

The shift towards a circular economy is now of central importance for environmental protection and the sustainable use of resources. To support these endeavours, the European Union has introduced the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Accordingly, all companies that manufacture, distribute or import goods in the EU must implement it.

The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a measure under the Circular Economy Action Plan and aims to improve transparency, sustainability and accountability in product life cycles.

It contains essential information about the value chain of a product, including its origin, composition, environmental impact and recyclability. It is not only used for labelling, but also combines regulatory requirements with consumer demands for transparency and sustainability.

This is based on the European Commission's proposed Ecodesign Regulation for Sustainable Products (ESPR)which came into force in 2024. From 2026, the DPP will initially apply to batteries, textiles, electronics and other product categories. Around 30 in total are to follow by 2030. The DPP will be customised for specific products and use data carriers such as QR codes or RFID tags to support reuse, repair, recycling and compliance with strict guidelines. The entire packaging sector is also involved in this development.

Impact on global supply chains

The DPP has an impact on global supply chains beyond Europe and obliges companies to comply with the new standards. This presents challenges and new opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to adapt their business processes to international expectations. Conformity with the DPP increases traceability as it End-to-end transparency along the entire supply chain and ensures product authenticity. This makes counterfeiting and product piracy more difficult. In addition, the DPP improves lifecycle management as it supports recycling, repair and reuse and thus promotes the development of a functioning circular economy. Greater transparency enables consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. At the same time, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to agreed climate targets.

(Image: Carsten Schütz/Photomentalist)

"The digital product passport will be a key milestone in the European sustainability strategy."

Cordula SteinhartMarketing Manager at Zetes GmbH

Shaping the transition to DPP compliance

The implementation of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) presents companies with complex challenges that require technical expertise, strategic planning and operational adjustments. In order to successfully shape this change, companies need Powerful, robust solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into existing infrastructures and enable efficient product labelling and data capture.

The transformation process begins with an initial inventory to identify compliance gaps and uncover integration opportunities. A careful analysis of existing processes forms the basis for recognising deficits in data quality and compliance capabilities. Based on this assessment, companies can then select suitable technologies, such as Packaging control systems, cloud-based platforms for data management and traceability solutionsto ensure transparency and compliance with guidelines.

In order to remain compliant in the long term and ensure operational efficiency, continuous system updates and regular training for employees are essential - especially in light of the evolving regulatory framework. There is considerable potential for synergies, particularly in connection with the implementation of the PPWR.

Potential of the DPP

Companies that are ready for change can benefit from significant advantages: In addition to compliance, they gain the ability to provide detailed product information. This builds trust and also strengthens relationships with consumers and partners. The integration of DPP regulations into operational processes can mitigate risks associated with counterfeiting, non-compliance and disruptive influences in the supply chain. Companies can utilise new technologies that support more efficient and sustainable processes, meet the growing need for transparency and sustainability and contribute to global efforts towards a circular economy.

Preparing for the future

Companies that proactively adapt to the new requirements at an early stage not only fulfil the regulatory requirements, but also actively contribute to building a more transparent, sustainable economy. That's why now is the time to act. With the help of a strong traceability partner, companies can turn compliance requirements into an opportunity to optimise their processes, reduce their environmental footprint and strengthen the trust of key stakeholders. The digital product passport is much more than a regulatory obligation: it represents a decisive step towards a more responsible, sustainable future.

With this instrument, the industry is making a fundamental change in terms of accountability and sustainability. Companies that actively embrace this initiative are making a valuable contribution to the global sustainability goals and positioning themselves as leaders in building a more transparent and resilient economy.