ESPR Approved: What does the ESPR mean for the Cosmetics Industry?

May 2024 marks the European Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation’s (ESPR) approval.

The ESPR replaces the Ecodesign directive, and expands the scope across industries. This article provides an overview of the ESPR, from the cosmetic industry’s perspective.

What is the ESPR, why is it relevant?

ESPR is a broader regulatory proposal, which encompasses multiple products and industries. The aim is to reduce the environmental impact products have, and create synergies across the circular economy legislation part of the EU Green Deal.

In addition to packaging requirements, the Ecodesign Regulation mandates that manufacturers consider the environmental impact of the product itself. This includes using sustainable materials and minimising the environmental footprint throughout the product’s life cycle, from production to disposal.

The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation represents a significant move towards enhancing sustainability in the beauty and cosmetics industry, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of these products.

What is Eco-Design under ESPR?

• Product durability, reusability, reparability
• Energy & resource efficiency
• Recycled content
• Product remanufacturing & high-quality recycling
• Reducing carbon & environmental footprints

What are the ESPR requirements ?

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

EPR is an environmental policy that shifts responsibility for a product's lifecycle, including design, take-back, recycling, and disposal, to the producer. EPR aims to ensure producers engage in sustainable practices and decrease the environmental impact of their products and packaging. The EU has introduced mandatory minimum requirements to harmonize EPR schemes across member states and drive investments into collection and recycling.