Digital Product Passport (DPP): what information do I need to collect and how can I prepare?

In a previous contribution , the origin and context of the Digital Product Passport (DPP) were explained – a digital identity card for products that will be introduced in phases starting from 2027. But what information does a DPP contain (and which you will soon need to start collecting in a structured way), what is its link with other sustainability frameworks, and how can you prepare efficiently?

What information does a DPP contain?

The information stored in a DPP may include the following dimensions:

• Unique product identification (product ID): DPPs must be linked to a unique operator identification and a unique facility identification to facilitate traceability
• Technical performance (functionality, durability, efficiency)
• Environmental performance (carbon footprint (GWP), resource use)
• Legal compliance (CE marking, chemical safety, regulatory compliance)
• User manuals and safety instructions
• End-of-life processing guidelines (repairability, recyclability, modularity)

The Ecodesign Regulation (ESPR) enables the Commission to establish product-specific data requirements through 'delegated acts', such as for the construction sector.

How does the DPP help with sustainability reporting and CSRD requirements?

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) obliges companies in Europe to report extensively on their impact on people and the environment. The European 'Sustainability Reporting Standards' (ESRS) provide the guidelines for this: they define which topics must be covered and how that data is recorded. Among other things, companies must provide insight into their material and energy consumption, the origin of raw materials, CO₂-emissions throughout the entire chain and the steps they take to reduce their impact.

Collecting the above information is often complex and time-consuming, because the data is frequently spread across various suppliers and partners. The Digital Product Passport offers a solution for this. The passport records for each product what materials it contains, where they come from, and how the product can be repaired or recycled. This data is centrally collected and stored in a digital system. Via a QR code or NFC tag, all authorized persons have access to this data, meaning companies do not constantly have to request the same information again.

The use of the Digital Product Passport for ESRS reporting is not mandatory, but it is a valuable tool. It provides companies with a single reliable source of product information, making the reporting process more efficient and transparent.

How can you prepare for DPP?

Although the final delegated acts are still under development, manufacturers can prepare as follows:

1. Are you already working with LCA or EPD? Align EPDs with the EN 15804+A2 standards. These are expected to be included in DPPs, particularly for construction products.

2. Establish internal systems for collecting, validating, and digitizing product data (including value chain) in line with the anticipated DPP categories.

3. Train internal teams to ensure that responsible departments understand the requirements of DPPs and data compliance obligations.

4. Ensure traceability by linking products to producer and facility identification codes.

5. Collaborate with service providers to ensure DPP-compliant solutions for data storage and access.

6. Monitor Commission updates on technical specifications and 'delegated acts' regarding the inclusion of product groups.

In summary

The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is part of the European Ecodesign legislation (ESPR) and is mandatory for all products sold on the EU market. Its purpose is to standardize product information and make it digitally accessible to anyone with the appropriate rights. In addition to material information, the DPP also includes data on origin, environmental impact, repair, and recycling.

Sooner or later, you will be confronted with it, whether you manufacture products yourself or not. Therefore, start working on it now so you are prepared for the questions that will undoubtedly arise.