Digital Product Passport

Definition and regulatory position

A Digital Product Passport is a system that allows product-specific information to be read from a two-dimensional code or similar and checked digitally by stakeholders and users. For textile products, this may include material composition, the history from raw material to manufacturing, environmental information, and information for circular use.

This is not a standalone certification mark or quality certificate. It is a framework for recording and sharing product information in a set format, and the applicable items, required information, and timing of application are defined by the system and by the region of sale.

Scope and how to think about standards

In the textile field, information such as product durability, repairability, consideration for reuse and recycling, response to hazardous substances, use of recycled materials, and supply chain traceability may be considered and required. However, not every item is required for every product in the same way.

In projects for Europe in particular, it is necessary to confirm the scope of relevant systems such as the Ecodesign Regulation and the requirements defined for each product. It may also be introduced as voluntary information disclosure, and legal obligations should be distinguished from customer-specific requirements.

• Target products and the country or region of sale
• Information management units such as product units, model numbers, or lot units
• Supporting documents for materials, blend ratio, country of origin, and processing and sewing processes
• Information needed for repair, collection, reuse, and recycling

Points to check in fabric procurement and product development

At the fabric procurement stage, confirm with the supplier the blend ratio, the origin of the raw materials, the spinning, weaving, and dyeing processes, and information on processing agents. If information is compiled only at the finished-product stage, gaps are likely to occur, so it is important to receive and retain fabric specifications and test reports together with the product information.

In product development, not only the outer fabric but also the lining, interlining, quilt batting, buttons, zippers, and accessories such as prints and labels may need to be checked. If there is a product number change, alternative materials, or a factory change, link the specifications and procurement records so the information can be updated.

How to handle labeling and certificates

Simply attaching a two-dimensional code does not guarantee the accuracy of the listed content or environmental performance. For material information, country of origin, certification status, and environmental claims, confirm supporting evidence appropriate to the type of claim, such as supplier declarations, test reports, and certificates.

A certificate is not the Digital Product Passport itself, but one piece of evidence supporting the listed information. Confirm the certification scope, validity period, and whether it applies to the transaction unit, and take care not to mislead by showing only the certification name and making uncertified products appear certified.

Differences from similar terms

Traceability refers to a state in which the flow of raw materials and products can be tracked. A Digital Product Passport may include traceability information, but it is not limited to that; it is a system that also makes product specifications, environmental information, and post-use handling available for reference.

OEKO-TEX, GOTS, and GRS are certification systems in which a third party verifies compliance with defined standards. A Digital Product Passport is not a certification system; it is used as a means of communicating product information, including such certification information.

Frequently asked questions