Ecodesign for steel: key concerns and recommenations

Types: Briefing
Published: 27 April 2026
Size: 4.36 MB

This briefing examines the European Commission’s first proposals for Ecodesign requirements for iron and steel under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

While the sector has strong potential to drive climate, energy and resource efficiency gains, current proposals fall short of this ambition. The analysis highlights key gaps in the scope of requirements, the proposed steel label, and the Digital Product Passport, and raises concerns about the underlying methodology. It sets out why stronger, more comprehensive rules are needed to support the shift to truly low-carbon, fossil-free steel in Europe.