Abstract
Achieving the European Union's commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development requires promoting informed consumption and encouraging the adoption of sustainable, energy-efficient products. Central to this effort are the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation and the forthcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP), designed to improve product transparency, traceability, and circularity. Although the electronics value chain is prioritized for early DPP implementation, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) products—responsible for significant energy use—remain insufficiently addressed. This research-in-progress paper aims to provide an exploratory analysis of DPP adoption within the HVAC&R sector, focusing on key issues related to motivations, challenges, opportunities, threats, and required capabilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives from a sectoral standardization body and industry experts. The data were analyzed using a thematic approach framed by a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) perspective. This framework provides empirical insights and practical guidance to support the future development and adoption of Digital Product Passports.
Recommended Citation
Rodrigues dos Santos França Lopes, Carla Irene; Barata, João; Roque, Nuno; and Garcia, João, "Unlocking the Digital Product Passport in the HVAC&R Sector: Challenges and Opportunities" (2026). CONF-IRM 2026 Proceedings. 2.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/confirm2026/2