The challenge and opportunity of Digital Product Passports
The opening sessions made one thing clear: implementing Digital Product Passports is both complex and transformative.
The goal is to create a digital ecosystem where every product has a verifiable record of its composition, origin, and environmental footprint, driving automation, transparency, and efficiency across supply chains.
Speakers emphasised that regulation doesn’t stifle innovation, it drives it. Just as mandated recycled content has accelerated investment in recycling, DPPs are expected to fuel new data-driven sustainability solutions.
“International cooperation is essential,” noted one speaker. “We’re all on the same journey — let’s travel together.”
Learn more about the European Commission’s DPP framework here.
Implementation status: Where are we now?
Carolynn Bernier (CIRPASS-2 / CEA) outlined the current implementation status of the European DPP in a global context. Her key message: the DPP data and DPP system are two distinct but interdependent topics.
Standardisation was a recurring theme, it must be sector-driven to prevent confusion as data moves through complex supply chains. The CIRPASS-2 team is focused on easing the process for economic operators who must soon comply with DPP requirements.
“The DPP shouldn’t be seen only as a regulatory tool,” said Bernier. “Businesses should pursue it for the economic benefits it brings.”
Opportunities for businesses and public authorities
For businesses, the benefits of DPPs go far beyond compliance:
- Greater supply chain transparency
- New circular business models
- Simplified reporting and due diligence
For public authorities, DPPs create opportunities to track non-compliant products across borders, much like the EU Safety Gate system.
Panel discussion: Closing the gaps
In a lively discussion moderated by Elliana Jensen-Abieva (CircularTech), experts agreed that success depends on sector collaboration and practical guidance for businesses of all sizes.
Key takeaways:
- Fashion is leading DPP adoption, driven by consumer connection and brand transparency
- Economic sustainability must align with environmental goals — the system has to make business sense
- SMEs need guidance and open-source tools to implement DPPs without heavy investment
- There’s a need for consultants and sector bodies to help businesses navigate the process confidently
“Responsible economic partners need somewhere to go to check they’re not getting it wrong,” said Sjoerd Rongen (CoE-DPP/TNO).
Regulation drives innovation and scale
According to Rongen, regulation creates the critical mass required for digital transformation. No organisation is exempt, and the inclusion of SMEs is vital for creating a truly circular, connected economy.
A circular model, he explained, means “pricing in externalities”, ensuring environmental costs are accounted for across every stage of a product’s life.
Early adoption and industry insights
Mariane ter Veen (INNOPAY) presented the “Adoption Pulse – DPP in the Netherlands”, highlighting interviews with early adopters. Their motivations for embracing DPPs include:
- Economic: risk management, innovation, and market opportunity
- Social: stronger stakeholder engagement
- Environmental: improved supply chain sustainability
Notably, 80% of frontrunner companies believe they’ll see tangible business benefits within three years, proving DPPs are more than a compliance exercise, they’re a catalyst for innovation.
Collaboration and internal champions
Laura van den Aarssen (CoE-DPP/TNO Vector) urged companies to build cross-departmental teams to drive DPP projects forward. When digitalisation is left to a single individual, the opportunity is lost. Collaboration, training, and internal advocacy are key to success.
Conclusion: Turning regulation into opportunity
The Digital Product Passport is reshaping how industries think about products, data, and responsibility. It’s not just another compliance hurdle, it’s a strategic opportunity to strengthen sustainability credentials, streamline reporting, and build consumer trust.
Businesses that prepare early will gain a competitive advantage as DPP legislation progresses across Europe.
Next steps: How Valpak can help
Valpak’s expertise and partnerships can support your business in preparing for DPP implementation and wider sustainability challenges:
Ready to explore how Digital Product Passports can add value to your business? Get in touch with our team today.
