Frequently Asked Questions

About the Digital Product Passport and GO TRACE

About the Digital Product Passport

What is the Digital Product Passport?

The DPP is a digital record that provides standardized information about a product's materials, origins, environmental impact, durability, repairability, and end-of-life options. It's accessed via a data carrier (like a QR code) on the product and is part of the EU's Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

When does DPP become mandatory for textiles?

The ESPR is already in force, and textiles are a priority sector in the EU's Working Plan. The specific delegated act for textiles — which will define exact requirements and timelines — has not yet been published. Once published, companies will have a transition period to comply. We recommend starting preparation now rather than waiting for final deadlines.

Who will need to comply with DPP requirements?

Any company placing textile products on the EU market — whether manufactured in Europe or imported. This includes brands, manufacturers, importers, and distributors. It is expected to apply regardless of company size.

What data will the DPP require?

Final requirements will be defined in the textile-specific delegated act. Expected data categories include: material composition, country of origin, environmental footprint, durability information, care and repair instructions, recycling guidance, and compliance certifications. Our training covers all anticipated data categories in detail.

Should I wait until the delegated act is published to start preparing?

No. The general framework is clear, and many requirements can be anticipated based on the ESPR text and the EU's stated priorities. Companies that wait until final rules are published will have less time to prepare and will likely pay a premium for rushed consulting and technology implementations. Starting now gives you a competitive advantage.

About GO TRACE

What happened to the GO TRACE Badge?

The GO TRACE Badge was a voluntary recognition of traceability efforts — designed for an era when transparency was optional. With the DPP making traceability a regulatory requirement, we've evolved our focus to helping companies prepare for compliance. The badge programme is no longer active, but our mission remains the same: more traceability, for responsible fashion.

What does GO TRACE offer now?

We offer DPP training (our comprehensive masterclass) and DPP consulting (tailored advisory services). We help fashion and textile professionals understand the regulations, build readiness strategies, and prepare for DPP requirements.

What makes GO TRACE different from other consultants?

Three things: (1) We specialise exclusively in fashion and textiles — not generic compliance. (2) Our founder participates as a UN/CEFACT Observer, giving us direct insight into how DPP standards are being developed. (3) We're vendor-independent — no software to sell, just unbiased guidance.

About Our Training

Who is the DPP Masterclass for?

The course is designed for sustainability consultants, brand sustainability managers, SME founders, sourcing and operations professionals, and anyone who needs to understand or lead DPP readiness in the fashion/textile sector. No prior knowledge required.

How is the course delivered?

Self-paced online learning with 10 modules released weekly. 100+ lessons, knowledge-check quizzes, and a certificate upon completion. You get lifetime access to all materials plus 12 months of regulatory updates.

Will the course be updated as regulations evolve?

Yes. Your enrollment includes 12 months of regulatory updates. As delegated acts are published and standards finalised, we add new content to the course and notify you by email.

If the regulations aren't finalised, why should I take the course now?

The ESPR framework is already in force, and the direction is clear. The course teaches you the regulatory context, data requirements, technical architecture, and implementation strategies that will apply regardless of final timeline details. Plus, you'll receive updates as regulations are finalised. Learning now means you'll be ready to act when deadlines are announced — rather than scrambling to catch up.

More traceability, for responsible fashion.