Project

At the end of June 2024, the European Commission published the Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 establishing a framework for the setting of ecodesign requirements for sustainable products (ESPR, Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation). The Regulation entered into force on 18 July 2024 and will enable the setting of far-reaching performance and information-related requirements – known as «ecodesign requirements» – for specific product groups, to make them more environmentally sustainable and circular. The ESPR establishes a framework for setting ecodesign requirements on specific product groups, it replaces the Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC.

A key innovation of the ESPR is the Digital Product Passport (DPP), which provides detailed, transparent information about a product’s sustainability throughout its lifecycle. If energy labels don’t fully cover sustainability aspects, a new ESPR-specific label may be introduced to fill the gap. Hence, this preparatory study aims to develop a new EU Label aligned with the principles of the ESPR. The label is intended to provide transparent, evidence-based information to support informed consumer choices and promote sustainable consumption. Building on the EU's long history with energy labelling, the new label should integrate with existing systems like the energy label and align with broader EU goals such as the Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP). The study lays the foundation for designing a label that meets consumer needs and advances sustainability across the EU.

The aim of the technical assistance is to set up labels under the ESPR and to prepare the implementing act on their layout.

The primary objective of this study is to provide a scientific, evidence-based background for the conception, layout and graphic design of the new ESPR labels. Within the project, specific elements of the new ESPR label should be investigated to ensure that its implementation effectively communicates information to consumers in a clear and easily understandable way that can be adapted to the unique characteristics of product groups and relevant target audiences across the EU. Ultimately, the design of the ESPR label should facilitate effective product comparisons, thereby empowering consumers to make informed decisions and adopt sustainable behaviours. Additionally, the label should support other operators and stakeholders in the supply chains of products covered by the ESPR regulation. This preparatory study establishes an evidence-based and practical foundation.

The project involves conducting a literature review, stakeholder consultations, focus group research, and cross-country quantitative studies to help develop evidence-based designs and recommendations for implementing an effective, user-friendly ESPR labelling scheme.

Any reports or further information that are published will appear here.

May 2025 – May 2026 

• European Commission (DG ENV)

• Ipsos European Public Affairs (Belgium)
• Waide Strategic Efficiency Europe (Ireland)
• Ramboll (Belgium)
• OEKO Institut (Germany)
• Vito (Belgium) (Framework contract manager)