The aim of the report is to identify synergies between the two frameworks, to show what companies are already implementing in practice and what findings can be derived from them, and to formulate policy recommendations to effectively integrate SSBD into future ESPR requirements.
The key questions are:
- Which principles and criteria of sSBD overlap with possible ESPR performance and information requirements and where do they complement each other?
- How can an SSBD approach to product design help define product-specific ESPR requirements for furniture and textiles?
- What specific recommendations for ESPR requirements in the area of textiles and furniture can be formulated on the basis of an SSBD analysis?
- What recommendations are there for policy makers to effectively combine SSBD with the development of ecodesign requirements under ESPR?
The report clearly shows that SSBD and ESPR pursue similar goals, but with different tools. While ssBD helps companies develop products more securely and circularly right from the start, ESPR sets binding requirements for durability, recyclability, material transparency, Substances of Concern and the digital product passport.
Key findings of the document:
- High synergies: SSBD principles such as material health, design for disassembly or modularity contribute directly to upcoming ecodesign requirements.
- Practical examples from C&A and IKEA: Case studies show that circular product design is already feasible today — but only with complete material transparency, clear requirements and close supply chain cooperation.
- Market challenges: A lack of data standards, complex chemical regulation, fragmentation along supply chains and inadequate recycling infrastructure make implementation difficult.
- Policy recommendations: The report outlines measures to systematically integrate SSBD methods into future ESPR delegated acts — from stricter requirements for material declaration to modular design requirements and targeted promotion of AI tools for SMEs.
The document makes it clear that the combination of SSBD and ESPR offers a great opportunity: Chemical safety, circular value creation and product transparency can be considered and regulated together in the future. For companies, this means early action — because SSBD-compliant practices not only facilitate upcoming ESPR obligations, but are already strengthening competitiveness and innovative capacity.
