Recent surveys reveal that 59% of consumers feel product labels lack adequate information, while 48% find labels unclear. Addressing this, the European Commission launched the Single Market for Green Products Initiative in 2013. Its cornerstone? The PEF, a life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology designed to measure and communicate the environmental impact of products across various categories.
However, not all products are created equal. Different industries require tailored assessment criteria, leading to the creation of Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCRs). These ensure that products within a category are measured uniformly, making environmental performance results comparable.
PEF in Practice: Methodology and Implications
The PEFCRs are still being finalized but aim to standardize assessments across these key impact areas:
- Climate Change
- Ozone Depletion
- Human Toxicity (cancer and non-cancer effects)
- Resource Depletion (water, mineral, fossil)
- Circularity, durability, and repairability (specific to fashion)
Once implemented, the PEF methodology could become mandatory for certain categories. In parallel, France’s Climate and Resilience Law will require environmental labeling for all products sold in the country from 2024. Similarly, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Product Regulation is expected to integrate PEF calculations into Digital Product Passports (DPPs), further emphasizing the need for standardization.
A Closer Look at Fashion: Apparel and Footwear PEFCRs
The apparel and footwear industry is at the forefront of this transformation. Since 2020, a Technical Secretariat comprising brands, NGOs, scientists, and governments has been crafting PEFCRs tailored to 13 subcategories, including:
- T-shirts, Jackets, and Dresses
- Swimwear, Accessories, and Shoes (open-toe, close-toe, boots)
What sets these rules apart is their focus on circularity, durability, and repairability—key factors influencing a product's lifecycle. The methodology will evolve to address emerging concerns like microplastic release, ensuring that fashion’s environmental impact is thoroughly evaluated.
For the most critical lifecycle stages, primary data is required, covering raw material production, transportation, and manufacturing processes. Secondary data, provided through centralized databases, will support less critical stages.
Connecting PEF to Digital Product Passports (DPPs)
The PEF's potential extends far beyond point-of-sale interactions. Enter Smart Digital Product Passports (DPPs), which ensure that PEF results accompany products throughout their lifecycle. By embedding environmental impact scores into a product’s digital identity, brands can:
- Inform multiple users: Enable consumers and resellers to access PEF data.
- Enhance product longevity insights: Align product lifespan with industry benchmarks.
- Refine PEF methodologies: Contribute real-world data to improve accuracy.
This innovation turns environmental assessments into long-term assets, fostering greater transparency and sustainability across the supply chain.
What’s Next?
While the European Commission evaluates PEFCR methodology, businesses must prepare for potential mandatory implementation by 2026. Brands should prioritize data collection and explore integrating DPPs into their operations to stay ahead in this regulatory shift.
With PEF and Digital Product Passports, the future of sustainable fashion isn’t just a vision—it’s becoming a reality. By embracing these tools, companies can position themselves as leaders in transparency, helping consumers and the planet alike.
SmartDPP.io is your partner in navigating the transition to PEF and integrating cutting-edge Digital Product Passport solutions. Stay informed and stay ahead.
