Paper Number
ECIS2025-1591
Paper Type
CRP
Abstract
Digital Product Passports (DPP) are a promising technology to enhance transparency around a product's sustainability, providing consumers with deeper insights into its environmental impact, material composition, recyclability, or ethical practices. However, it is unclear if and which of these detailed information consumers value. This paper presents an empirical analysis of consumer preferences for information transparency in DPPs, based on a survey of 230 German consumers. Applying conjoint analysis, we quantified preferences for various information attributes and levels. Unlike prior studies, our results indicate that consumers generally prefer detailed over basic information, with the highest utility derived from data on circularity, materials, and production. However, consumers with low environmental responsibility do not consistently favour more information. This study enhances our understanding of consumer preferences concerning the disclosure of sustainability-related product information. Practically, these findings guide policymakers, software developers, and organizations in designing effective and consumer-centric sustainability transparency within DPPs.
Recommended Citation
Behn, Oliver; Wichmann, Johannes; and Leyer, Michael, "Consumer Preferences for Sustainability Transparency in Digital Product Passports" (2025). ECIS 2025 Proceedings. 4.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2025/isresilience/isresilience/4
Consumer Preferences for Sustainability Transparency in Digital Product Passports
Digital Product Passports (DPP) are a promising technology to enhance transparency around a product's sustainability, providing consumers with deeper insights into its environmental impact, material composition, recyclability, or ethical practices. However, it is unclear if and which of these detailed information consumers value. This paper presents an empirical analysis of consumer preferences for information transparency in DPPs, based on a survey of 230 German consumers. Applying conjoint analysis, we quantified preferences for various information attributes and levels. Unlike prior studies, our results indicate that consumers generally prefer detailed over basic information, with the highest utility derived from data on circularity, materials, and production. However, consumers with low environmental responsibility do not consistently favour more information. This study enhances our understanding of consumer preferences concerning the disclosure of sustainability-related product information. Practically, these findings guide policymakers, software developers, and organizations in designing effective and consumer-centric sustainability transparency within DPPs.
When commenting on articles, please be friendly, welcoming, respectful and abide by the AIS eLibrary Discussion Thread Code of Conduct posted here.