Integrated product policy: Products and their impact on energy

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.