EU Sustainability: Circular Economy and Product-Related Frameworks – State of Play

Overview

The EU builds a new circular economy plan. It works to change how we design and use products. The European Commission leads this change. The plan supports the EU Green Deal. It aims for climate neutrality by 2050 and a 50% drop in emissions by 2030. Each step links closely to the next.

Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP)

Adopted in March 2020, the CEAP is a key part of the European Green Deal. It adds circular ideas into every product’s life. The plan helps make products last longer, easier to repair, and ready for material reuse. It targets important areas like packaging, electronics, batteries, textiles, and construction. It sharpens rules and cuts environmental harm. It also builds EU strength by lowering imported raw material use and by boosting the secondary market.

Sustainable Product Policy Framework: Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)

On June 13, 2024, the EU started the ESPR. This new rule takes the place of the old Ecodesign Directive that focused only on energy products. The ESPR now covers every physical product. It includes several linked measures:

• Comprehensive Ecodesign Rules:
  These rules focus on durability, ease of repair, recyclability, energy use, recycled content, and reducing harmful substances. They come in steps through product-specific delegated acts.

• Digital Product Passport (DPP):
  This passport gives each product a digital identity. It connects production with end-of-life. The system starts in July 2026. It serves manufacturers, authorities, consumers, and others to support checks and market control.

• Ban on Destruction of Unsold Products:
  The ban stops the destruction of unsold items in textiles, leather, and footwear. It begins in July 2026 for large companies and in July 2027 for medium ones. It allows exceptions for safety, damage, or failed donation efforts. All records must be kept for ten years.

• Green Public Procurement:
  Public bodies must now choose products that protect the environment. This rule boosts demand for greener market options.

Implementation and Key Product Priorities

The Commission set a clear path in its ESPR and Energy Labelling Working Plan in April 2025. It marks products like iron, steel, aluminium, garments, footwear, textiles, and tyres for special ecodesign standards.

Conclusion

The EU rethinks production and consumption. Its CEAP and ESPR create a circular approach. The rules keep product lifecycles close, use digital tools for clear tracking, and cut waste. The EU sets a global model for sustainable production and product policy.

Sources:

• EU Circular Economy Action Plan, 2020
• Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, June 2024
• Latham & Watkins LLP Insights on EU Sustainability Frameworks (2025)

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