EU Introduces a Digital Passport for All Construction Materials
By in
The introduction of a Digital Passport for all construction materials as part of the EU’s new Construction Products Regulation (CPR) certainly reflects the European Union’s commitment to advancing its green and digital agendas. This initiative aligns with the EU’s broader goals of promoting sustainability, enhancing efficiency in the building sector, and ensuring the free movement of goods within the market. On 6 December 2023, the EU Council and the European Parliament reached an agreement.
By ADAM FREY
By mandating a digital passport for construction materials, the EU demonstrates its proactive approach in integrating digital solutions into regulatory frameworks. This not only aims to streamline administrative processes but also reinforces the EU’s dedication to the principles of the circular economy. These passports will likely provide detailed information about the environmental impact and lifecycle of construction materials, encouraging more sustainable practices in the building industry.
The Essence of the New Regulation
The CPR establishes harmonized rules across the EU for construction products, aiming to facilitate their free movement in the market. It addresses key challenges such as reducing administrative burdens through digital solutions and ensuring that construction products adhere to circular economy principles and embrace new construction technologies.
Key Features of the Agreement
- Technology and Digitalization: The agreement acknowledges the rapid development of technologies in the construction sector. It introduces the concept of a ‘construction products digital passport’, paving the way for more streamlined and efficient processes.
- Green Public Procurement: The regulation empowers the Commission to set mandatory environmental sustainability requirements for public procurement of construction products. This measure is designed to boost the supply and demand for environmentally sustainable products.
- Addressing Standardization Challenges: To resolve delays in the standardization process, the agreement allows the Commission to adopt harmonized technical specifications under certain conditions. This approach aims to enhance the Commission’s role in ensuring timely and effective standardization.
Transition and Implementation
The provisional agreement proposes a 15-year transition period, ensuring a smooth shift from the old legal framework to the new one by 2039. This period is crucial for an orderly transition and proper migration of harmonized technical specifications.
Impact and Outlook
Spanish Minister for Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu i Boher, emphasized that this agreement equips constructors to be key players in the green and digital transitions. The regulation is seen as a step forward in making construction products more resource-efficient, less polluting, and less wasteful.
Next Steps
The provisional agreement now awaits endorsement and formal adoption by both the European Parliament and the Council. Once ratified, the regulation will mark a significant leap towards sustainable and technologically advanced construction practices in the EU.
Read more on EU Construction Products Regulation
© Copyright eEuropa Belgium 2020-2023
Source: © European Union, 1995-2023