Chemical regulations

Europe

Digital Product Passport (DPP)

What is the Digital Product Passport (DPP)?

The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a product-specific dataset containing detailed information on a product's sustainability, regulatory compliance, and chemical composition. Under Regulation (EU) 2024/1781, this tool is established as a digital record accessible through electronic means via a data carrier (such as a QR code). Its goal is to enhance transparency and foster a circular economy within the European Union market.

For the chemical products specifically, the DPP enables the tracking of hazardous substances, ensures compliance with ecodesign requirements, and facilitates market surveillance. Regarding detergents and surfactants, Regulation (EU) 2026/405 integrates this tool to streamline reporting obligations, ensuring that both end-users and authorities have immediate access to critical safety and biodegradability data.

What information must the DPP contain for chemicals and detergents?

The content of the digital passport is divided into two categories: general data required for any chemical product under the ecodesign framework, and specific data based on the product category (such as detergents).

 

For most chemical products, the mandatory data inputs will include:

 

  • Identification and Traceability: This includes the Unique Product Identifier (UPI), the operator identifier (manufacturer or importer), and, in many cases, the identification code of the facility where the substance or mixture was manufactured.
  • Substances of Concern: This is a critical point for the chemical sector. The DPP must disclose the presence of any substances that affect reuse or recycling, including their name, concentration, and location within the product.
  • Environmental Performance: Data regarding the carbon footprint, resource consumption during production, and the use of recycled content in packaging.
  • Safety Documentation: Direct links to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and other technical certificates of conformity.


For detergents and surfactants, additional requirements apply due to their direct contact with consumers and the aquatic environment:

 

  • Full Ingredient List: Unlike physical labels, the DPP allows for the digital disclosure of the full composition, promoting total transparency.
  • Microbial Information: If the product contains microorganisms, the taxonomic name, concentration, and safety conditions for use must be included.
  • Dosage and Sustainable Use: Detailed instructions to prevent overconsumption and minimize impact on wastewater treatment plants.

 

What are the responsibilities of manufacturers, importers, and distributors?

Economic operators face strict obligations to ensure the integrity of the system:

 

  • Manufacturers: They are responsible for creating the DPP before placing a product on the market. They must ensure the data carrier (QR code or similar) is clearly visible on the label or packaging and that the passport remains available for 10 years after the last batch of the product has been sold.
  • Importers: They must verify that the manufacturer has created the DPP, confirm that the technical documentation is complete, and ensure the information has been uploaded to the European Commission's central registry.
  • Distributors: They are required to verify the presence of the data carrier before selling the product and must act with due diligence to ensure product compliance is not compromised during handling.

 

How does the DPP benefit sustainability and chemical safety?

The implementation of the DPP aims to transform chemical management through:

 

  • Transparency: It empowers consumers to choose products based on real data regarding environmental impact and the presence of allergens.
  • Market Surveillance: It enables customs and regulatory authorities to perform automated compliance checks through interconnection with the EU Single Window system.
  • Circular Economy: It provides essential information for waste management and raw material recovery, reducing the presence of substances that hinder recycling.

 

What are the expected implementation timelines for the DPP?

The rollout of the DPP will be progressive to allow for the industry’s technical adaptation:

 

  • General Entry into Force: The Detergents Regulation will become applicable, for the most part, starting September 23, 2029.
  • Customs Controls: Mandatory automated verification of DPPs at EU borders will go live on September 23, 2029.
  • Biodegradability: New requirements for polymeric films (capsules) and other organic substances in detergents have extended deadlines reaching 2032 and 2034, respectively.

 

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