David Pajtondziev

This research paper examines how the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Digital Product Passport (DPP) will impact the fashion industry by enforcing stricter sustainability requirements, increasing corporate accountability, and improving transparency across global fashion supply chains. Evaluating ten fashion companies through a comprehensive scoring framework, the study highlights top performers including Adidas, H&M Group, and LVMH, who demonstrate stronger commitments to sustainable materials, circularity, supply chain transparency, and ethical labor practices. The research identifies critical gaps across the industry, particularly insufficient reporting on unsold inventory, limited repair and resale initiatives, and weak enforcement of labor rights in outsourced production. As ESPR regulations come into effect, fashion brands must proactively enhance sustainability practices, strengthen supplier relationships, and invest in circularity initiatives to achieve compliance and ensure long-term alignment with EU standards.