Regulation (EU) 2024/1781 establishing a framework for the establishment of ecodesign requirements for sustainable products (the "Ecodesign Regulation").

On June 28, 2024, the European Union published the regulation (EU) 2024/1781, which defines the framework for setting ecodesign requirements for sustainable products, known as the Ecodesign Regulation. This regulation enters into force on 18 July 2024 and is part of the European Green Deal, which aims to transform the EU into a competitive and climate-neutral circular economy.

The Ecodesign Regulation sets minimum criteria that aim to improve the recyclability and energy efficiency of products, thereby contributing to the permanent reduction of the Union's carbon and environmental footprint. The Regulation joins other sustainability-oriented legislative rules such as the Battery Regulation and the Right to Repair Directive.

Scope:

The regulation applies to all physical products that are placed on the market in the Union, including components. Exceptions are food, medicines, living organisms and means of transport. Individually, the regulation applies to economic operators involved in the market, such as manufacturers, importers, distributors and online platforms.

Main changes:

The Regulation replaced the 2009 Ecodesign Directive, entering into force on 18 July 2024 and applying directly in EU Member States without the need for national transposition. The main provisions of the previous directive will apply during a transitional period of at least two and a half years.

Extension of scope:

The European Commission has extended the scope to a wide group of products, while the ecodesign requirements primarily concern products with a high environmental impact, such as metal products, textiles, furniture and electronics.

Ecodesign requirements:

The regulation covers the entire life cycle of products and introduces a framework for specific requirements to ensure the sustainability of products. These requirements will be specified in delegated acts adopted by the European Commission.

Information obligations:

Economic entities must provide information on product parameters, such as their composition, durability and environmental impact. A digital product passport will be introduced to facilitate access to this information.

Prohibition of destruction of unsold products:

The regulation prohibits the destruction of unsold consumer products such as clothing and footwear, while economic entities must take measures to prevent their destruction and report their number and weight.

Impacts on economic entities:

The main obligations concern the manufacturer, who must ensure that his products meet the requirements of ecodesign. Importers and distributors must also ensure compliance with these regulations.

Sanctions:

Member States are obliged to set penalties for breaching the regulation, and the fines can reach high amounts.

The Ecodesign Regulation is an important step towards a more sustainable product in the EU. Economic entities should prepare for its implementation, observe transitional periods and monitor new developments to avoid sanctions. (Co2AI)