In the quest for a more sustainable construction industry, a groundbreaking study led by Winnie Ruismäki from the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd has shed light on the potential of digital product passports (DPPs) to revolutionize the sector. Published in the journal *Cleaner Logistics and Supply Chain* (translated as *Cleaner Logistics and Supply Chain*), the research delves into how DPPs can foster circularity, aligning with the Sustainable Product Initiative and the Construction Products Regulation.
The construction industry, a significant contributor to global waste and resource consumption, is ripe for disruption. Ruismäki’s study explores how DPPs—digital records of a product’s life cycle—can enhance traceability and resource efficiency. “The digital product passport has the potential to transform the construction sector by providing a comprehensive overview of a product’s journey from creation to end-of-life,” Ruismäki explains. This transparency can lead to better decision-making, reduced waste, and improved resource management.
The research identifies key data points that should be included in a DPP, such as manufacturing, usage, life-cycle, and end-of-life data. These elements form a foundational framework that could guide the industry towards greater circularity. Stakeholders, including manufacturers, architects, and contractors, have expressed enthusiasm for the benefits of DPPs, such as improved traceability and the potential to integrate with building information modeling (BIM). “Integrating DPPs with BIM can create a seamless flow of information, enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of construction projects,” says Ruismäki.
However, the path to implementation is not without challenges. Intellectual property concerns and the need for tailored solutions for different product groups are significant hurdles. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing intellectual property protection with transparency to ensure the effectiveness of DPPs. “Each product group has unique requirements, and the DPP framework must be flexible enough to accommodate these differences,” Ruismäki notes.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. Enhanced traceability and resource efficiency can lead to cost savings and improved sustainability, aligning with the growing demand for green building practices. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the adoption of DPPs could become a standard practice, driving innovation and sustainability.
Ruismäki’s research is a stepping stone towards a more circular and sustainable construction industry. By addressing the knowledge gaps and refining the DPP framework, the study paves the way for future developments that could reshape the sector. As the industry moves towards greater digitalization, the insights from this research will be invaluable in guiding stakeholders towards a more sustainable future.