Sector: All sectors

Touchpoint: Overarching

Life cycle stage / R-strategy: multiple

The PCDS initiative is a comprehensive framework designed to standardize and verify circular economy data reporting across industries. Spearheaded by Terra Matters in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and the Chamber of Commerce of Luxembourg, the initiative addresses the critical need for transparency and interoperability in circular data. The PCDS provides detailed information on product lifecycles, including material composition, manufacturing processes, usage, maintenance, and end-of-life disposal, thus supporting informed decision-making and promoting sustainable practices. 

The development of the PCDS involved extensive stakeholder engagement through interviews, workshops, and working groups, ensuring the framework met industry needs and aligned with existing certifications and standards, such as ISO 59040 (in progress). The initiative also anticipates upcoming EU regulations, such as the Ecodesign Sustainable Products Regulation, reinforcing its relevance and applicability. 

By creating a network of trained and accredited issuers and providing easy-to-use digital integration, the PCDS aims to facilitate widespread adoption, particularly among SMEs. The initiative is driven by the goal of advancing the circular economy, enhancing resource efficiency, and reducing environmental impact, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable global economy.