Digital Product Passports (DPPs)
Here, you will find everything you need to know about Digital Product Passports; what they are, why they’re being implemented, how they work, their benefits, and what steps you can take to prepare.
What are Digital Product Passports?
Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are secure, digital records that hold detailed information about a product. What it’s made from, how it’s manufactured, and how it should be reused, recycled, or responsibly disposed of at end-of-life. This information allows end users to make informed decisions based on transparent carbon footprint data, assist end of life handling with useful sorting and recycling information or even speed up import/export clearance.
Each passport is linked to a physical product, often via a QR code or RFID tag, and accessible by everyone from producers and consumers to regulators and recyclers.
See features and requirementsCore features and data requirements
The Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) sets the framework for DPPs. It specifies mandatory information categories that must be included, though exact data points will vary by product group. At a high level, DPPs will need to contain:
Product identification
- Product type and model
- Unique product identifier (e.g., barcode, QR code, RFID)
- Manufacturer/importer name and contact
- Place of production
Sustainability Information
- Materials composition (e.g. % recycled content, hazardous substances)
- Carbon footprint (in some sectors)
- Resource efficiency (e.g. energy or water usage)
- Durability, reusability, repairability, recyclability
- Presence of critical raw materials
Lifecycle data
- Repair instructions
- Maintenance requirements
- End-of-life guidance (e.g., dismantling, recycling)
- Availability of spare parts
- Warranty information
Compliance information
- Declarations of conformity (e.g., CE mark)
- Proof of compliance with eco-design criteria
- Applicable Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) registration numbers
- Safety or usage restrictions (if any)
- Additional Required Info (If Applicable by Sector)
Sector-specific data
- Textiles: fibre composition, production origin, washing durability, microfibre shedding
- Electronics: battery info, software version, data wiping methods
- Batteries (under Battery Regulation): carbon footprint, expected lifetime, origin of raw materials
- Access & Interoperability Requirements
- DPPs must be digitally accessible via a QR code or similar on the product or packaging
- Data must be interoperable, machine-readable, and secured (role-based access is likely — e.g., different info for consumers vs. repairers vs. regulators)
- Timeline & Rollout. The first product groups with required DPPs are expected to be textiles, batteries, and consumer electronics, starting from 2026–2027, depending on the final delegated acts under ESPR.
Key steps for DPP implementation
Here are the key steps involved for businesses wanting to implement Digital Product Passports (DPPs)
Collecting accurate product data is the foundation of a Digital Product Passport. Information has to be captured from manufacturers, suppliers, and sometimes even during use or repair. The challenge is ensuring this data is consistent, reliable, and linked to the correct product.
Possible solutions companies can adopt:
- Use QR codes or NFC tags on products to link physical items to digital records.
- Standardize data entry by using industry templates (e.g., for textiles: fibre content, dyeing process, washing instructions).
- Automate data capture from supply chain management systems to reduce manual entry errors.
- Require suppliers to provide digital compliance certificates (materials, safety, sustainability).
Once collected, product data must move across a complex supply chain from manufacturers to distributors, retailers, repairers, and recyclers. Systems used by different companies often aren’t compatible and businesses want to keep control over sensitive data.
Possible solutions companies can adopt:
- Connect through cloud-based data spaces (e.g., based on International Data Spaces standards) to securely share information.
- Potential use of Application Programming Interfaces, allowing IT systems to communicate seamlessly.
- Provide role-based access controls, so recyclers can see material composition but not sensitive design files.
- Establish data-sharing agreements with partners to clarify ownership and permissions.
DPP data often must be available for much longer than most business IT systems are designed for. Storing large, detailed records securely and cost-effectively is a major hurdle.
Possible solutions companies can adopt:
- Use cloud storage providers for scalability and reliability.
- Adopt hybrid storage models: store large files (manuals, impact reports) off-chain in the cloud, while keeping essential product IDs or certificates on secure registries.
- Regularly back up data using redundant systems.
- Build storage systems that comply with long-term regulatory requirements for accessibility.
Businesses need to make sure product data isn’t tampered with, and only the right actors can update or view sensitive information.
Possible solutions companies can adopt:
- Encrypt data during both storage and transfer.
- Use Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs) to verify the identity of manufacturers, recyclers, and regulators.
- Employ blockchain to record timestamped updates that cannot be altered later.
- Monitor system access with audit trails so any misuse or breaches can be traced.
Millions of products will require DPP’s, so systems need to be affordable and easy to use, not just for large companies, but also for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Possible solutions companies can adopt:
- Use DPP-as-a-Service platforms or partnerships that provide ready-to-use digital passport solutions without building custom IT systems.
- Develop user-friendly portals so smaller suppliers can upload required data without technical expertise.
- Adopt modular architecture so companies can start with core regulatory data and add voluntary features later.
- Share best practices and training across supply chains.
Why DPPs matter
As sustainability moves from aspiration to regulation, transparency is now a business imperative. Starting in 2027, EU legislation will require Digital Product Passports (DPPs) for high-impact sectors like textiles, electronics, and batteries—making structured product data essential for market access.
DPPs empower businesses and consumers to:
- Extend product lifecycles through reuse and repair
- Improve recycling and end-of-life outcomes
- Make informed, responsible purchasing decisions
But fragmented data, limited supply chain visibility, and inconsistent formats make compliance complex.
Reconomy simplifies the challenge. We transform scattered information into scalable, compliant DPP solutions,future-proofing your brand and building trust through verifiable sustainability.
What's coming and when?
Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are already shaping product policy across the EU, with significant implications for producers, retailers, and supply chain partners across multiple sectors.
As part of the EU’s Green Deal and broader push toward a circular, transparent economy, DPPs will become central to circular product regulation. That means preparation needs to begin now. The technical, operational, and cross-supply chain requirements are complex and will take time to understand and implement.
These changes will impact how products are labelled, tracked, and shared digitally, with deadlines fast approaching for high-priority sectors such as textiles, electronics, and batteries.
Here’s a look at what’s coming and when:
Delegated acts begin. This includes:
- Technical standards and data requirements for DPPs are developed.
- Industry pilots and voluntary adoption begin.
- Companies start preparing internal systems for DPP compliance
DPPs become mandatory for priority sectors. The below listed will be among the first regulated sectors:
- Textiles
- Batteries,
- Electronics
Broader rollout across 30+ product groups.
- Increasing enforcement and alignment across EU Member States.
- DPP becomes a standard requirement for placing products on the EU market.
Industry applications and use cases
Textiles
Passports in textiles can carry data on fibre composition, dyeing processes, and care instructions. This information is crucial because most textiles are blends that are difficult to recycle without knowing what’s inside.
Use cases and opportunities:
- Sorting for recycling: QR codes on garments let recyclers instantly know if a shirt is 100% cotton (recyclable) or a polyester blend (requires chemical recycling).
- Consumer transparency: Shoppers can scan tags to see supply chain details (origin of cotton, water footprint).
- Resale markets: Platforms can verify authenticity and material quality before accepting second-hand items.
Electronics
Electronics often contain critical raw materials and hazardous components. DPPs can detail material content, repair manuals, and part replacements.
Use cases and opportunities:
- Repair and maintenance: Service providers can access official repair guides and check part compatibility.
- Material recovery: Recyclers know exactly which metals are inside batteries (e.g., cobalt, lithium), improving recovery rates.
- Refurbishment: A used laptop’s passport could show its repair history, helping resellers value it accurately.
Tyres
Tyres are resource-intensive and often difficult to recycle effectively. A DPP can track their material mix, mileage, and re-treading history.
Use cases and opportunities:
- Safe reuse: Fleet operators can check how many times a tyre has been re-treaded before putting it back on the road.
- Targeted recycling: Recyclers know whether the rubber can be reused in new tyres or downcycled into products like flooring.
- Performance tracking: Manufacturers can study wear data across tyres in use, feeding insights into design improvements.
EV batteries
Tyres are resource-intensive and often difficult to recycle effectively. A DPP can track their material mix, mileage, and re-treading history.
Use cases and opportunities:
- Safe reuse: Fleet operators can check how many times a tyre has been re-treaded before putting it back on the road.
- Targeted recycling: Recyclers know whether the rubber can be reused in new tyres or downcycled into products like flooring.
- Performance tracking: Manufacturers can study wear data across tyres in use, feeding insights into design improvements.
Benefits of DPP adoption
Adopting Digital Product Passports offers a wide range of strategic benefits for brands, manufacturers, and retailers alike, extending well beyond compliance.
These include:
Transparency and trust
DPPs provide clear, accessible product data that builds trust with consumers and partners.
Regulatory compliance
They simplify compliance with evolving legislation by centralising required product information.
Customer engagement
They open a new channel to connect with consumers through scannable product interactions.
Streamline operations
Rollout DPP’s with minimal initial data and scale efficiently as your datasets mature, boosting internal workflows
Sustainability and circularity
DPPs support circular economy goals by enabling better reuse, recycling, and impact tracking.
Competitive advantage
Early adoption signals innovation and readiness for upcoming regulation, setting brands apart.
How do I get my business DPP ready?
Preparing for DPP’s can seem daunting, but it’s a manageable journey. Here’s a practical roadmap to get your business DPP-ready:
- Understand process length of onboarding new products – This will help you understand when certain actions will be needed.
- Map your product data – Identify what information you have and where it is located. Identify what data you don’t have and plan how you may get it.
- Engage your supply chain – Work with suppliers to gather and validate missing data.
- Choose your DPP solution – Select a trusted platform or partner to structure and manage your data.
- Start small, then scale – Pilot with a small number of product lines to test and refine your approach.
- Stay informed – Monitor evolving legislation and ensure your business remains compliant.
Reconomy’s DPP offering
Reconomy offers a comprehensive suite of DPP solutions, delivered in partnership with specialist providers. This enables us to support businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to large enterprises, whether you have existing data or need full data collection and management outsourcing.
To ensure a smooth and effective transition, our approach covers every stage of the DPP journey. From initial consultation to ongoing optimisation, tailored to your specific needs and readiness level.
Consultation
Set a strong foundation with expert guidance. We work closely with your teams to:
- Assess your current product data systems, identifying gaps and reducing future compliance risks.
- Engage key stakeholders and define clear data ownership and responsibilities, ensuring internal alignment from day one.
- Develop a tailored DPP roadmap aligned with legislation and your business goals, giving you a structured, low-risk path to rollout.
Implementation and integration
Test and launch with confidence. Our team supports your technical rollout by:
- Migrating your existing data into a compliant, digital-ready format to unlock traceability and long-term efficiency.
- Integrating systems and APIs across your supply chain to enable seamless data exchange and transparency.
- Testing and validating data flows, ensuring everything works reliably before you scale.
Training and support
Build capability, not dependency. We equip your teams for long-term success through:
- Interactive training sessions that upskill your staff and embed digital know-how.
- Clear documentation and user guides to support adoption and reduce onboarding time.
- Ongoing technical support to troubleshoot issues and optimise performance.
Ongoing maintenance and optimisation
Stay compliant, agile, and ahead of the curve. We help you maintain and evolve your DPP solution by:
- Conducting regular audits to ensure data quality and legal compliance.
- Applying updates and changes to stay ahead of evolving legislation and standards.
- Driving continuous improvement through technology enhancements and best practices that turn DPP into a competitive edge.
Why your business must act now
Here’s why your business needs to act now:
- EU legislation is already in motion
- Data gaps take time to fix
- Supply chain engagement is critical
- Early movers gain advantage
- Start small, scale smart
- Avoid compliance penalties
Start your business's DPP journey today
Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are more than a compliance tool, they’re your gateway to transparency, efficiency, and deeper customer trust. At Reconomy, we make DPPs simple. Our expert team guides you through every step: from strategy and data readiness to implementation and long-term optimisation. Whether you’re preparing for EU regulations or looking to lead on sustainability, we’ll help you turn complexity into clarity, and regulation into opportunity.
Get in touch today to future-proof your operations and build a brand that lasts.
Book a consultationDigital Product Passports (DPPs) Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and their implementation into businesses.
Yes. At least in the EU, they’re becoming mandatory:
- Under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), DPPs will be required for many product categories starting in 2027.
- Initial focus includes batteries, textiles, electronics, furniture, and chemicals.
- Products sold in the EU must include a DPP to ensure transparency, traceability, and regulatory compliance.
- Messy data: Supply chains are fragmented, making clean, consistent data hard to collect.
- Old systems: Legacy platforms like ERP and PLM don’t play nice with new tech.
- Sensitive info: Companies worry about exposing proprietary details.
- High costs: For small businesses, upgrades and training can be a big burden.
- Unclear rules: EU regulations are still evolving, so targets keep shifting.
Digital Product Passports are developed by a mix of players:
- Industry groups like Catena-X and the Global Battery Alliance
- Tech providers offering blockchain and data platforms
- Manufacturers and brands integrating DPPs into their products
- Standards bodies and researchers shaping the rules and frameworks
It’s a collaborative effort to make product data smarter, more transparent, and future ready.
A practical example of a Digital Product Passport (DPP) can be seen in the textile sector. Imagine a jacket sold in the EU from 2027: its label contains a QR code that links to a secure digital record. By scanning the code, anyone – from consumers to recyclers – can instantly access key information such as:
- Fibre composition (e.g., 70% recycled polyester, 30% organic cotton)
- Manufacturing details (where and how it was produced)
- Environmental footprint (carbon and water usage)
- Care and repair instructions (washing guidance, availability of spare parts like zips or buttons)
- End-of-life guidance (how the garment can be dismantled and recycled).
Book a DPP consultation today
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