Towards an operationalization of the proposed European Directive on EcoDesign (design for environment) of electronic end use products (EuP)

Abstract

In this paper it is discussed how the currently proposed European Directive on electronic end use products (EuP) can best be implemented into EcoDesign practice. First of all it is explained that the environmental analysis (Life Cycle thinking) to be made under the requirements of EuP best can be done on the basis of Environmental Benchmarking. Physical metrics is recommended to be the best instrument to do the analysis. Integration of EcoDesign into Product Creation Processes is a key condition for successful application of EuP principles. This process, including roadmapping and performance measurement. The opportunities and limitations of EuP (what can it deliver and what does it not deliver) has been discussed. The strength and weaknesses of the current draft EuP are analyzed based on the operational perspective sketched in this paper. Prospects for EuP in this respect are good, be it that still revisions of parts of the annexes are necessary to increase practicality and ecoefficiency.