SG 073/25
European Commission (EC) adopts Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and Energy Labeling Working Plan for 2025-2030.
On April 16, 2025, the EC adopted the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Energy Labeling Working Plan 2025–2030, a key step in implementing the ESPR. The plan identifies priority product groups for the introduction of ecodesign and energy labelling requirements over the next five years. These include textiles, furniture, mattresses, tires and metals (steel and aluminum), with the goal of promoting sustainability and circularity in product design and manufacturing across the EU.
Product prioritization is based on market size, environmental impact and potential for improvement. Among all categories assessed, textiles and apparel have been identified as the top priority. This ranking reflects strong stakeholder support, a significant market share – EUR 78 billion out of EUR 142 billion in the EU textile and footwear market (2019) – and a substantial environmental footprint.
Textiles offer high potential for improvement, especially in terms of product lifetime extension, material efficiency and reducing environmental impacts such as water consumption, waste generation, climate emissions and energy use. Anticipated ecodesign measures for textiles are expected to align with the revised Textile Labeling Regulation, currently under review, to ensure a coordinated and effective regulatory approach. These measures are tentatively scheduled for adoption in 2027.
Footwear is treated separately from textiles due to distinct materials, functions and supply chains, as well as its relatively lower environmental impact. However, recognizing its importance, the Commission will conduct a study during the working plan's implementation to assess how ecodesign can enhance sustainability and support eco-modulation of extended producer responsibility (EPR) fees under the Waste Framework Directive. The study is expected to conclude by the end of 2027.
The ESPR expands beyond traditional energy-focused ecodesign to cover the entire product lifecycle, from material sourcing and manufacturing to usage and end-of-life management. Given the high resource use and environmental impact of textiles and footwear, these sectors are a key focus. The ESPR will drive significant transformation, requiring brands to adopt more circular, transparent and innovative practices throughout their value chains.
Aligned with the 2025–2030 Working Plan, the ESPR is a cornerstone initiative for advancing sustainability and circularity in product design and manufacturing across the EU. The plan prioritizes product groups based on their environmental impact and improvement potential, aiming to reduce energy consumption, promote sustainable material use and enhance product durability, reusability and repairability. These ambitious measures are designed not only to support consumer choice and stimulate innovation, but also to strengthen the global competitiveness of EU manufacturers.
Ultimately, the ESPR contributes directly to the EU’s broader environmental, climate, energy and economic resilience goals.
Reference:
- European Commission Press Release
- Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Energy Labelling Working Plan 2025-2030
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