The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), in force since July 2024, is the EU’s new framework for making sustainable products the standard across the single market. It replaces the earlier Ecodesign Directive and expands the scope from energy-related products to almost all physical goods. The ESPR sets out horizontal rules on aspects such as durability, reparability, recyclability, recycled content, substances hampering circularity, and environmental footprint. It also introduces the Digital Product Passport to improve transparency, traceability and access to product-related sustainability information.
Furniture has been identified as one of the first product groups to be regulated under this new framework, with new requirements expected by the end of 2030. An Ecodesign Forum has been set up as the Commission’s expert group to support exchanges with stakeholders and gather input for the delegated act that will set specific requirements for furniture.
On 16 April 2025, the European Commission published its Work Plan for 2025–2030, outlining the priority product groups. Textiles—particularly apparel—are listed first, followed by furniture (delegated act expected in 2028), and later tyres and mattresses in 2029. Intermediate products such as steel and aluminium are also included.
The preparatory study for furniture is scheduled to start in 2026, with adoption of the delegated act foreseen for 2028. A general transition period of 18 months applies, meaning requirements would apply around 2030, though timelines may vary by requirement.
In parallel, CEN TC 207 is developing several ESPR-related standards. A standard on disassembly/reassembly has already been published, with others covering remanufacturing and refurbishment underway.
When it comes to the recommendations surrounding the ESPR, several important considerations should be taken into account:
- Pay special attention to SMEs and microenterprises, which make up the majority of the furniture sector;
- Adopt a product approach and focus on broad sustainability objectives aligned with the goals of waste reduction and product longevity, preserving the industry’s flexibility in the composition of materials and design configurations;
- Consider standardisation activities of CEN TC 207 on ESPR aspects;
- Ensure a level playing field, also with regard to imported products.
