EFSA Seeks Feedback on Overhaul of Weight of Evidence and Biological Relevance Guidance
EFSA launches consultation on updating its Weight of Evidence and Biological Relevance guidance, aiming to streamline chemical risk assessment practices.
On 16 April 2025, the European Commission adopted the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products and Energy Labelling Working Plan 2025–2030, setting out regulatory priorities for textiles, furniture, metals, and more. This initiative, under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), impacts all manufacturers supplying the EU market by mandating enhanced product sustainability, circularity, and energy performance standards. The working plan introduces new compliance obligations and market opportunities, particularly for businesses involved in product design, materials, and lifecycle management.
Key Insights
New Product Priorities for Sustainability and Circularity
The working plan, adopted in Brussels, identifies priority product groups including textiles (focused on apparel), furniture, tyres, mattresses, iron, steel, and aluminium. These selections are based on their environmental impact, market size, and potential to contribute to EU climate goals. For instance, textiles alone accounted for €78 billion of the EU market in 2019, with high potential for material efficiency and lifetime extension.
The Commission will also introduce horizontal ecodesign requirements on repairability—such as scoring mechanisms—and recyclability, targeting electrical and electronic equipment. These will be phased in progressively, supported by delegated acts and stakeholder consultation.
Energy Labelling and Digital Product Passports
Energy-related products, including dishwashers, washing machines, electric motors, and EV chargers, will transition under ESPR by 2026. The plan carries over 16 products from the 2022–2024 cycle, with updates due by 2030. Energy labelling updates aim to inform consumer choices and incentivise market competitiveness.
Key to this transition is the Digital Product Passport, which will standardise access to product information across the supply chain. It supports traceability, transparency, and compliance for producers and service providers alike.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
The ESPR applies to all products sold in the EU, including imports. It requires manufacturers to disclose detailed sustainability data, improve repairability and recyclability, and align with EU carbon accounting standards. SMEs will receive tailored guidance, but all actors in the manufacturing value chain must adapt processes and documentation systems accordingly.
According to Commissioner Jessika Roswall, the plan
“provides legal certainty and predictability for the concerned industries, fostering innovation and driving investment.”
Meanwhile, Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné emphasised the potential to create jobs and reduce emissions:
“These ecodesign rules apply to all products... ensuring each of them meets the EU’s ambitious goals.”
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