How is a digital product passport physically linked to a product?

A Digital Product Passport is linked to a physical product through a data carrier that lets users access the product’s information digitally. Data carriers can be of several forms like QR codes or DataMatrix codes, linear barcodes, digital tags such as NFC or RFID, and even invisible options like digital watermarks. How this link works in practice:

1. Physical placement
The data carrier must appear on the product, its packaging, or the accompanying documentation. Wherever possible, it is placed directly on the product so the information stays accessible throughout its life cycle. In some cases, exceptions apply depending on the product’s size, nature, or use.

2. Unique identifier
The data carrier connects to a unique product identifier, which is a permanent code that points to the product’s digital passport. These identifiers follow internationally recognised standards so they can be scanned and used consistently across industries.

4. Accessing the passport
Consumers, repairers, and recyclers can access the passport by scanning the data carrier with a smartphone or similar device. This opens up key information such as material composition, carbon footprint, and repair guidance. For online sales, where the physical carrier cannot be scanned in advance, sellers must provide a digital version of the carrier or the unique identifier before purchase.