The European Union’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) is set to redefine sustainability standards across industries, including the global textile industry. Although an EU regulation, its impact will resonate far beyond Europe. Replacing the Ecodesign Directive, ESPR introduces stringent requirements for safer chemical usage, product durability, repairability and recyclability, alongside mandating transparency in consumer information.
For international businesses, ESPR is not just another regional regulation, it is a game-changer for the textile and fashion industry.
Setting a global standard
As one of the most comprehensive sustainability regulations in the world, ESPR establishes a benchmark that other markets are likely to emulate. Countries like the US are expected to adopt similar measures as sustainability concerns escalate. Once consumers experience the benefits, they may also begin to demand comparable regulations in their own markets.
Moreover, adherence to ESPR objectives aligns with broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities, which are becoming critical to business success. Companies that meet these rigorous sustainability standards can enhance their ESG profiles, attract investment and gain a competitive advantage in increasingly sustainability-driven consumer markets.
Since ESPR will reshape sourcing practices for companies operating in the EU, it will inevitably also impact global supply chains. Even companies currently operating outside of the EU’s scope will find benefits in aligning with ESPR requirements, including future-proofing their operations and avoiding potential penalties or market denial.
Circularity
The circular economy is at the heart of ESPR. Traditionally, companies have emphasized sustainability in production, reducing the use of harmful chemicals and conserving resources. Under ESPR, companies must also address end of life accountability, including post-consumer waste collection, product repair, material reuse and recycling.
Durability is a clear ESPR objective, bringing multiple benefits such as elongated product longevity, waste reduction, lower carbon footprints and enhanced customer satisfaction. In some markets, such as France, there are even financial incentives to promote durability.
What are the issues?
Many companies around the world are already responding to the demand for circularity, durability and compliance within ESPR, even if they do not currently operate in Europe. However, many have identified technical gaps in their current testing and compliance regimes, which may meet current requirements but fall short of the ESPR’s standards. Addressing these gaps is essential to prepare for the significant changes ESPR will bring to the global fashion industry.
Another challenge is the introduction of the digital product passport (DPP). Essentially a digital twin for the physical product, the DPP will collate verified information on environmental metrics - durability, repairability, recyclability, recycled content, greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption – offering consumers deeper insights into product sustainability.
Preparing for the future
We have developed a comprehensive range of durability assessment solutions to help businesses meet the challenges of ESPR compliance. Sustainability protocols cover everything from base materials to performance and longevity. Our solutions help you bridge any technical gaps, enabling customization to your individual requirements.
The message is clear: ESPR’s influence will extend beyond Europe’s borders, reshaping global markets and consumer expectations. The fashion industry must act now to align with its objectives or risk being left behind in the shift towards sustainability.
For more information:
Min Zhu, Ph.D.
Connectivity & Products
Senior Director, Technical Services & Operations
US & Canada Softlines
SGS North America, Inc.
t: +1 (973) 461 1230
About SGS
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