We also have an update from our project to promote green digitalisation through knowledge exchange of standardisation and policy insights between experts in Europe and in Africa.
Everything you always wanted to know about ecodesign but were too afraid to ask
The EU’s most ambitious push for sustainable products entered into force two years ago with the ESPR. Since then, product groups have been prioritised, destroying unsold footwear and apparel was banned, a new ecodesign forum has been established, and new standards are being developed. Read on to learn about the current state of ecodesign in the EU.
WATCH: Eco-fashion? New EU ecodesign rules for apparel
The EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) will require mandatory minimum ecodesign requirements for apparel and a Digital Product Passport for all garments. Watch the webinar recording as we assess the timeline and progress of this delegated act and discuss opportunities to get involved.
We set the bar high for energy-using products that last
Our homes and workplaces are full of energy-using products – from phones and tablets, computers and printers, servers, to washing machines. Our work on material efficiency helps to prolong the life of these products, saving energy for the planet and money for consumers.
In our workshop, we will foster dialogue and promote collaboration between African and European stakeholders on greening ICT products and provide a platform with experts in the two regions to exchange knowledge, share good practices, and build mutual collaboration to address the environmental impacts of ICT products – including inclusive standardisation processes that can support a more sustainable digital future.
We also have a new call for experts open for our new project How can standards be best used to restart the engine of industrial decarbonisation? aimed at assessing the links, opportunities, and bottlenecks for standards within Africa, Europe, and internationally to support industrial decarbonisation, particularly for construction materials.
ECOS online
ECOS in the news
EU targets 46% electricity share by 2040 under new Electrification Action Plan
The EU’s new Electrification Action Plan is designed to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels. Senior Programme Manager Luka De Bruyckere spoke to Edie about the encouraging ambition - but highlighted the outstanding need to address both the growing energy demand and damaging environmental impacts from data centres.
ECOS events
24 September 2026
Nairobi, Kenya
Workshop: Promoting green digitalisation: Sharing EU ICT product standardisation and policy insights
In our workshop, we will foster dialogue and promote collaboration between African and European stakeholders on greening ICT products and provide a platform with experts in the two regions to exchange knowledge, share good practices, and build mutual collaboration to address the environmental impacts of ICT products – including inclusive standardisation processes that can support a more sustainable digital future.
We are looking for an enthusiastic Communications Officer to support our public communications, with a focus on circular economy topics, and help create impact through innovative communications strategies.
Do you have a good understanding of international, regional, and national building codes, policies, and standards concerning construction materials and the construction of buildings and infrastructure in Africa?
Do you have knowledge on sources of microplastics and effective emission abatement strategies or pellet loss calculation methodologies? Our experts defend environmental interests in the development of standards and policies.
Candidates should have in-depth technical and scientific knowledge on technical requirements for methane reductions in the energy sector, including methods for measurement, reporting, and verification of emissions.
'Belgium must assess the long-term toxicity of pesticides'
Bond Beter Leefmilieu and partners have brought together concerned citizens to launch expedited proceedings against Belgium, claiming the Belgian pesticide authorization procedure violates European law [FR]. They argue that the government systematically ignores long-term impacts, particularly the potential development of cancer and the “cocktail effect”.
Review the governance of extended producer responsibility
Faced with the failing performance of eco-organisations, Zero Waste France denounces conflicts of interest at the heart of extended producer responsibility and proposes to review the governance of EPR. [FR].
The EU’s R2R Directive was a big win for the Right to Repair Coalition. By 31 July 2026, all EU Member States were required to transpose the Directive into national law. But what does the reality look like?
Let's meet! Upcoming events featuring ECOS
African Organisation for Standardisation General Assembly
24-28 August – Mombasa, Kenya
ECOS will be at the ARSO General Assembly week, under the theme “Standards enabling intra-Africa trade under the AfCFTA – one certificate working for you”. Our colleague Marxine Waite will speak on the Session 3 Panel covering the use of Voluntary Sustainability Standards on 26 August. We look forward to engaging with our members and partners who will also be joining this event.
ECOS is co-funded by the European Union & EFTA.
Views and opinions expressed belong to the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EISMEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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