Who will be impacted by digital product passports: Plastics industry?
According to the European Parliament, every person living in the EU generates about 36 kg of waste plastic packaging per year. Since many of these products take several years to decompose, the EU is urgently looking to reduce this figure.
One step towards this is found within the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan which will enhance the transparency and traceability of plastics lifecycles. These will provide detailed information on the origin, composition, production processes, and recycling pathways of every plastic product.
The new DPP regulations will have a significant impact on all stakeholders in the plastics supply chain. This means:
Manufacturers will have to provide detailed information on both the production and composition of plastics, including data on raw materials, additives, and sustainability.
Raw materials suppliers will need to ensure they can trace the origin of all the materials they supply, including sourcing of recycled content and compliance with sustainability standards.
Plastics recyclers will be able to access detailed information on the composition of plastic products via DPPs, to allow for better sorting and processing.
Waste managers will be able to track the lifecycle of plastic products more efficiently and ensure that more products reach recycling facilities and fewer go to landfills.
Consumers will have access to transparent information on the environmental impact and recyclability of the products they buy. This will encourage customers to support brands that prioritise environmental responsibility.
Digital Product Passport: Plastics timeline
The implementation of Digital Product Passports for plastics is part of a cross-sector initiative. DPPs for certain plastic products are set to be rolled out in 2024, with broader implementation for the rest of the industry set for 2026.
How to prepare for digital product passports in plastics?
Plastics manufacturers and other stakeholders should focus on these key areas to ensure they are ready for the integration of DPPs:
Assign a DPP team or lead person to oversee the compliance strategy and ensure smooth integration when regulations become mandatory.
Collect accurate data sets on all aspects of the lifecycle and production methods of plastics and products containing plastic.
Conduct thorough audits of current suppliers to ensure ethical sourcing and traceability.
Implement innovative technology solutions that ensure the easy management and sharing of data throughout the whole supply chain.
What to look out for in a DPP solution for plastics?
Companies in the plastics industry should look for the following features in a DPP solution:
Support for comprehensive data tracking and logging by all levels of the supply chain.
A reliable technology platform with a user-friendly interface so all stakeholders have easy access to record, manage, and share data.
High security built into the solution so sensitive company information is safely secured.
Seamless integration with current processes and systems to ensure minimal disruption.
Consultancy on complex and shifting EU regulations to support compliance efforts.
AuthentifyIt offers all these features and more. We’re also experts in navigating complex EU regulations and guiding companies towards maintaining compliance with minimal disruption to current business processes.
Get in touch with us today for a discovery call and uncover how AuthentifyIt can prepare your business for the future of trading within the EU.
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