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~ Wijnand Jongen ~

of the DPP could go as far as fibre manufacturing and yarn
production - activities usually taking place outside of EU
borders - for a single shirt.

Now, the DPP could become an instrument for companies
selling in the EU to easily prove compliance with rules. But
before unleashing this potential, the legislators must make
sure that the data required to underpin the DPP can indeed
be harvested, processed and reaches the concerned parties. In
a nutshell, the obligations that will accompany the roll-out
of the DPP must be anchored in existing business practices,
take into account technical considerations and availability of
specific technology.

Reflections for future environmental policymaking
Because the accuracy of the information contained in the
BECOME OUR
DPP will strongly depend on many players’ contributions,
it is key to define (and understand) their roles in the value
chain. Even if the Commission is trying to leave businesses
leeway for the uptake of the DPP (e.g., technology-agnostic
COMPANY PLUS
data carrier, product-specific considerations and level of
information), the final result will likely bear consequences.
Adaptations in the value chains or at least in traceability
MEMBER
systems might be needed. Marketing, packaging and product
design will also be influenced by the introduction of the DPP.

More than ever, it is crucial for policymakers to strike the
right balance between ambitious rules and easy compliance
and effective enforcement. The adaptation of legislation
to a greener economy should not be too burdensome on
Participate in public affairs
those who make the transition possible. New rules should
not try to replace functioning business arrangements but activities
give spotlight to and foster better practices. Most of all,
obligations placed on players must remain feasible and should Get weekly and monthly monitoring
not over complexify the regulatory landscape. Among others, reports on relevant policy issues
Ecommerce Europe’s role is to monitor that these simple
criteria are met by new legislation. Get the annual European B2C
Ecommerce Report for free
With its pragmatic and participatory approach to the co-
creation of the DPP, the Commission is showing willingness
to take these principles in. Minimising the impact of Access exclusive events
policymaking on businesses by including them in the loop
is an excellent starting point. And at the same time, this is
Publish your profile and guest article
a good reminder for companies to continue engaging with
on Ecommerce Europe's website
policymakers on topics that they care about. As the saying
goes, “If you are not at the table, you will be on the menu!”. ••

For more information visit our
website or email us:
www.ecommerce-europe.eu
[email protected]

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