Integrated product policy: products and their impact on energy

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the Ecodesign Directive and the extent to which it provides a regulatory framework for life‐cycle assessment approaches which underlie integrated product policy (IPP), thus providing a horizontal approach to product legislation as a new approach to regulating pollution.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on academic commentary as well as official papers, European communications and legislation.

Findings

The development and application of the Ecodesign Directive is highlighted along with the different regulatory approach it poses which is shown to result from the application of life‐cycle assessment and IPP.

Practical implications

The impact on the development of products will be extensive in that they will be required by mandatory rules to be designed with a view to the reduction of their whole life environmental impacts.

Originality/value

The approach is to highlight a new paradigm for regulating pollution and environmental impacts.

Citation

Malcolm, R. (2011), "Integrated product policy: products and their impact on energy", International Journal of Law in the Built Environment, Vol. 3 No. 1, pp. 48-64. https://doi.org/10.1108/17561451111122606