Following the European Commission’s presentation of new measures to reduce regulatory and administrative burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) today, including provisions for paperless reporting and digital product information, the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA Europe) issued the following statement.
CCIA Europe welcomes the Commission’s recognition that digital tools can reduce unnecessary regulatory friction and support the EU’s sustainability goals. Making digital delivery of product information the default is a long-overdue step that can significantly reduce waste, improve access to information, and boost EU competitiveness.
The following can be attributed to CCIA Europe’s Sustainability Manager, Leonardo Veneziani:
“The Commission is right to promote digital product information to cut red tape and reduce environmental impact. Defaulting to digital formats like QR codes or smart labels is a practical win for companies, consumers, and the climate. But to truly unlock this potential, the benefits of digital documentation must be extended to all companies – not just SMEs.”
“However, it remains unclear why certain safety-related information is excluded from this digital-by-default approach. Allowing electronic access – alongside printed instructions – would improve access to up-to-date safety instructions. A more innovation-friendly approach is needed to better reflect today’s digital habits, sustainability objectives, and simplification efforts.”
“CCIA Europe also supports the development of the Digital Product Passport (DPP). However, it must be decentralised, future-proof, and usable for companies of all sizes. A rigid or overly centralised DPP system risks becoming a burden, not a solution.”
“Digital product policy is vital to a modern circular economy. These proposals are promising, but success depends on the technical details. Ambition must be matched by practical, workable implementation and operational reality.”
“We look forward to the Commission’s continued work, including the revision of the New Legislative Framework, and will contribute hands-on insights to help ensure that proposed solutions are both practical and timely.”
Notes for editors
CCIA Europe’s recommendations on digital product information and the Digital Product Passport can be found here and here.
