Digital Product Passport (PEFCR v3.1 Explained): What It Means for Fashion
What is the 100x1000 upcycling club?
On May 14, 2025, the final version of the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) v3.1 for apparel and footwear was officially released. These rules now define how fashion brands must measure the environmental impact of their products—scientifically, objectively, and transparently. They form the basis for upcoming EU legislation, including the mandatory Digital Product Passport (DPP).
What does this mean for fashion brands?
Brands are now expected to measure the environmental impact of each product across its entire life cycle: from raw material extraction and production, to transport, use phase, and end-of-life.
According to PEFCR v3.1, brands must calculate impact based on factors such as:
How does this link to the Digital Product Passport (DPP)
The outcomes of your PEF study will feed directly into the mandatory Digital Product Passport, part of the upcoming Eco design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
What must the DPP include?
What can your brand do now?
Need help?
At RethinkRebels, we support brands with:
We don’t build DPP tools—but we help you ask the right questions, navigate offers, and choose a solution that fits your brand’s goals and resources.
Curious to learn more or ready to get started?
Email rachel@rethinkrebels.com for a free intake.
What is the 100x1000 upcycling club?
On May 14, 2025, the final version of the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) v3.1 for apparel and footwear was officially released. These rules now define how fashion brands must measure the environmental impact of their products—scientifically, objectively, and transparently. They form the basis for upcoming EU legislation, including the mandatory Digital Product Passport (DPP).
What does this mean for fashion brands?
Brands are now expected to measure the environmental impact of each product across its entire life cycle: from raw material extraction and production, to transport, use phase, and end-of-life.
According to PEFCR v3.1, brands must calculate impact based on factors such as:
- Climate impact (CO₂ equivalents)
- Water use, land use, and fossil resource depletion
- Toxicity, acidification, and particulate matter
- Microplastic release
- Intrinsic durability, repairability, and lifespan
How does this link to the Digital Product Passport (DPP)
The outcomes of your PEF study will feed directly into the mandatory Digital Product Passport, part of the upcoming Eco design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
What must the DPP include?
- A unique QR code or digital ID per product
- Data on material composition, origin, and impact figures (e.g. CO₂, water use)
- Usage tips, repair instructions, and end-of-life options
- Information on chemical substances (if applicable)
- Any sustainability claims or certifications, supported by verified data
What can your brand do now?
- Start mapping your data: Across materials, processes, suppliers, and product lifespans.
- Explore multiple DPP providers: Compare offerings, prices, integration, and usability.
- Align impact data with your CSRD strategy and upcoming Green Claims Directive.
Need help?
At RethinkRebels, we support brands with:
- Building PEF-compliant impact data
- Comparing DPP providers and making informed choices
- Integrating everything into your CSRD strategy, Green Claims-proof storytelling, and due diligence systems
We don’t build DPP tools—but we help you ask the right questions, navigate offers, and choose a solution that fits your brand’s goals and resources.
Curious to learn more or ready to get started?
Email rachel@rethinkrebels.com for a free intake.
Author
Rachel Cannegieter
Sustainability & Circularity Board Advisor | Fashion & ESG Expert | Founder, Circular Impact Consultancy RethinkRebels | CSRD | GRI | B Corp Leader | Driving sustainable leadership, strategic impact & lasting change.