Introduction to Ecodesign Directive

Many aspects of products cause a negative impact on the environment (emissions to air including greenhouse gases, to soil, water, and energy consumption). The Council and the European Parliament therefore adopted a Commission proposal for a Directive on establishing a framework for setting Ecodesign requirements (e.g. energy efficiency) for all energy using products in the residential, tertiary, and industrial sectors.

The four main objectives of the Ecodesign Directive are to:

• ensure the free movement of energy-using products within the EU
• improve the overall environmental performance of these products and thereby protect the environment,
• contribute to the security of energy supply and enhance the competitiveness of the EU economy,
• preserve the interests of industry, consumers, and other stakeholders

The first step in considering whether and which ecodesign requirements should be set for a particular product, is a preparatory study recommending ways to improve the environmental performance of the product. The preparatory study will provide the necessary information to prepare for the next phases in the policy process (carried out by the Commission) and in particular the impact assessment, the consultation forum, and the possible draft implementing measures laying down ecodesign requirements for products.

For more information on the Ecodesign Directive and related activities, please visit:

• DG Entreprise: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/eco_design/index_en.htm
• DG Energy and Transport: http://ec.europa.eu/energy/efficiency/ecodesign/eco_design_en.htm

The ENTR Lot 1 preparatory study focused on Refrigerating and Freezing Equipment.

Please note there was also a preparatory study on Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers, which focused on refrigerated display cabinets (plug in and remote) and on refrigerated vending machines - TREN Lot 12 (see final report)