The Guardians of Sustainability Podcast: A Conversation with Matthew Ekholm from Protokol
In the latest episode of The Guardians of Sustainability, host Robin dives deep into a game-changing innovation shaping the future of business and sustainability: the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Our guest, Matthew Ekholm, Strategic Engagements Manager at Protokol, shares how this technology can revolutionize the way businesses manage products, comply with regulations, and embrace circular economy practices.
If you’re a business leader, sustainability manager, or supply chain expert, this episode offers valuable insights into how DPPs can help you stay ahead of upcoming legislation and deliver real value to customers.
What is the Digital Product Passport?
The Digital Product Passport is a digital tool that stores and shares essential product information, such as:
Materials used in the product
Lifecycle data, including repair, reuse, and recycling instructions
Environmental footprint and origin details
This data is typically accessed through a simple QR code or digital tag, enabling businesses, supply chains, and consumers to make more transparent and sustainable decisions.
Why Does the Digital Product Passport Matter?
Regulatory Compliance
The European Union’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) is making transparency and circularity a legal requirement. Industries like electronics, batteries, and textiles will need DPPs to meet compliance standards and avoid penalties.Driving the Circular Economy
DPPs create opportunities for circular business models, such as product-as-a-service, repair programs, and recycling initiatives. Businesses can unlock new revenue streams while reducing their environmental impact.Empowering Consumers
By scanning a DPP, consumers can access detailed product information, enabling smarter purchasing decisions, better product care, and proper end-of-life recycling. Transparency builds trust and loyalty.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
Prepare Now: Businesses should start small with pilot projects to integrate Digital Product Passports into their systems.
Overcome Challenges: Coordination across IT, supply chains, and sustainability teams is critical to success.
Consumer-Driven Innovation: DPPs are not just about compliance—they’re about creating value for customers and staying competitive.
Matthew emphasizes that the future of product management is digital—and the time to act is now.
Listen to the Full Episode
Curious to learn more about how the Digital Product Passport can transform your business? Tune into the full conversation with Matthew Ekholm on The Guardians of Sustainability.
🎧 Listen to the episode on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Stay ahead of the curve, embrace innovation, and join us as we shape a more transparent, sustainable future!
