### (29) in order to ensure transparency and public participation , the commission should engage with all interested stakeholders. to that end , the commission should closely cooperate with stakeholders including private and public actors , such as bodies governed by public laws of the educational or health sector , and consult them on measures to accelerate the digital transformation at union level. the involvement of stakeholders would be important at the level of member states as well , in particular when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments. ### (29) in order to ensure transparency and public participation , the commission should engage with all interested stakeholders. to that end , the commission should closely cooperate with stakeholders including private and public actors , such as bodies governed by public laws of the educational or health sector , as well as civil society and consult them on measures to accelerate the digital transformation at union level. the involvement of stakeholders would be important at the level of member states as well , in particular when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments.


### set a clear direction for the digital transformation of the union and for delivery of the digital targets; ### set a clear direction for an inclusive , social and sustainable digital transformation of the union and for delivery of the digital targets;


### promote a human-centered , inclusive , secure and open digital environment where digital technologies and services respect and enhance union principles and values; ### promote a human-centered , sustainable , inclusive , secure , social , accessible and open digital environment where digital technologies and services respect and enhance union rights , principles and values;


### promote a human-centered , inclusive , secure and open digital environment where digital technologies and services respect and enhance union principles and values; ### promote a human-centered , inclusive , secure and open digital environment where digital technologies and services respect and enhance union principles , rights and values;


### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divide notably by promoting basic and specialised digital skills for all and fostering the development of high-performing digital education and training systems; ### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divides , whether social , economic , geographic or gender-based , including bridging the digital gender gap of women in stem , notably by promoting basic and specialised digital skills for all and fostering the development of high-performing , inclusive , digital education and training systems , free and accessible to everyone , including people with disabilities;


### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divide notably by promoting basic and specialised digital skills for all and fostering the development of high-performing digital education and training systems; ### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divide notably by promoting basic digital skills for all , as well as advanced digital skills , and fostering the development of inclusive digital education and training systems;


### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divide notably by promoting basic and specialised digital skills for all and fostering the development of high-performing digital education and training systems; ### reinforce member states’ collective resilience and bridge the digital divides , whether social , economic , geographical or gender-based , notably by promoting basic and specialised digital skills for all and fostering the development of high-performing digital education and training systems;


### ensure digital sovereignty notably by a secure and accessible digital infrastructure capable to process vast volumes of data that enables other technological developments , supporting the competitiveness of the union's industry; ### ensure digital sovereignty notably by a secure and accessible digital infrastructure capable of processing vast volumes of data that enables other technological developments , supporting the competitiveness of the union's industry;


### promote the deployment and the use of digital capabilities giving access to digital technologies and data on easy and fair terms in order to achieve a high level of digital intensity and innovation in union’s enterprises , in particular small and medium ones; ### promote the deployment and the use of digital capabilities giving access to digital technologies and data on open , accessible , easy and fair terms in order to achieve a high level of digital intensity and innovation in union’s enterprises , in particular small and medium ones;


### promote the deployment and the use of digital capabilities giving access to digital technologies and data on easy and fair terms in order to achieve a high level of digital intensity and innovation in union’s enterprises , in particular small and medium ones; ### promote the deployment and the use of digital capabilities giving access to digital technologies on open , accessible and fair terms in order to achieve a high level of digital intensity and innovation in union’s enterprises , in particular small and medium ones;


### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are accessible online for everyone , in particular disadvantaged groups including persons with disabilities , offering inclusive , efficient and personalised services and tools with high security and privacy standards; ### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are accessible online for everyone , in particular disadvantaged groups including persons with disabilities , and the elderly , offering inclusive , efficient , accessible , services and tools with high security and privacy standards , and will be enabled to access these via free trainings and accessible , tailored human guidance available at all times , while always maintaining the choice for offline services;


### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are accessible online for everyone , in particular disadvantaged groups including persons with disabilities , offering inclusive , efficient and personalised services and tools with high security and privacy standards; ### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are easily accessible online for everyone , in particular disadvantaged groups including persons with disabilities , offering inclusive , efficient and personalised services and interoperable tools with high security and privacy standards , including free and open software;


### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are accessible online for everyone , in particular disadvantaged groups including persons with disabilities , offering inclusive , efficient and personalised services and tools with high security and privacy standards; ### ensure that democratic life , public services and health and care services are accessible online for everyone;


### ensure that digital infrastructures and technologies become more sustainable and energy- and resource efficient , and contribute to a sustainable circular and climate-neutral economy and society in line with the european green deal; ### ensure that digital infrastructures and technologies become sustainable and energy- and resource efficient , and contribute to a sustainable circular and climate-neutral economy and society to achieve the european green deal and the union’s environmental targets and objectives;


### ensure that digital infrastructures and technologies become more sustainable and energy- and resource efficient , and contribute to a sustainable circular and climate-neutral economy and society in line with the european green deal; ### ensure that digital infrastructures and technologies become sustainable and energy- and resource efficient , are used more efficiently and contribute to a sustainable circular and climate-neutral economy and society in line with the european green deal;


### facilitate convergent conditions for investments in digital transformation throughout the union , including by strengthening the synergies between the use of union and national funds , and developing predictable regulatory approaches; ### facilitate convergent conditions for investments in digital transformation that ensure environmental sustainability , respect for fundamental rights and equality throughout the union , including by strengthening the synergies between the use of union and national funds , promoting investment in support of socially and environmentally beneficial outcomes and developing predictable regulatory approaches;


### facilitate convergent conditions for investments in digital transformation throughout the union , including by strengthening the synergies between the use of union and national funds , and developing predictable regulatory approaches; ### facilitate convergent conditions for investments in digital transformation throughout the union , including by strengthening the synergies between the use of union and national funds , and developing predictable regulatory and support approaches that also involve the regional and local level;


### ensure that all policies and programmes which are relevant to the achievement of the digital targets , are taken into account in a coordinated and coherent way to fully contribute to the digital transition. ### ensure that all policies and programmes which are relevant to the achievement of the digital targets , are taken into account in a coordinated and coherent way to fully contribute to the twin green and digital transition.


### (1) a digitally skilled population and highly skilled digital professionals: ### (1) a broad digitally skilled population for all age groups , and highly skilled digital professionals:


### at least 20 million employed information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed , with convergence between women and men; ### at least 20 million employed information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed , without gender , social or geographic divides;


### at least 20 million employed information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed , with convergence between women and men; ### at least 20 million , diverse and gender-balanced information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed


### at least 20 million employed information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed , with convergence between women and men; ### at least 20 million information and communications technology (ict) specialists are employed , without a gender divide;


### all european households are covered by a gigabit network , with all populated areas covered by 5g; ### all european households are covered by a gigabit network , with high-speed networks complement existing networks and eco-designed services mainstreamed to ensure the tackling of digital divide in remote;


### all european households are covered by a gigabit network , with all populated areas covered by 5g; ### all european households are covered by a gigabit network , with all populated areas covered by sustainable high speed networks;


### at least 75% of union enterprises have taken up: ### where relevant , at least 75% of union enterprises have taken up:


### at least 75% of union enterprises have taken up: ### at least 75% of relevant union enterprises have taken up:


### (4) digitalisation of public services: ### (4) environmentally sustainable and social digitalisation of public services in line with human rights:


### 100% online accessible provision of key public services for union citizens and businesses; ### 100% online accessible provision of key public services accessible for all individuals and businesses , while ensuring access to adequate human personnel to assist in public and administrative procedures , and while ensuring the right to offline services and always having a possibility to be helped by a human;


### 100% online accessible provision of key public services for union citizens and businesses; ### 100% online accessible of public administrations and public services for union citizens and businesses;


### 100% of union citizens have access to their medical records (electronic health records (ehr)); ### 100% of union citizens who want to use medical records (electronic health records (ehr)) will have access to these with strong privacy and encryption safeguards including decentralised storage;


### at least 80% of union citizens use a digital identification (id) solution. ### 100% of union citizens who want to use a digital identification (id) solution can do so , but will not be obliged to use it de jure nor de facto.


### at least 80% of union citizens use a digital identification (id) solution. ### 100% of union citizens have access to digital identification (id) solution.


### at least 80% of union citizens use a digital identification (id) solution. ### 100% of union citizens have acces to a digital identification (id) solution.


### (1) the commission shall monitor the progress of the union against the objectives and digital targets set out in articles 2 and 4. to this end , the commission shall rely upon digital economy and society index (desi) , and for the purpose of this decision , in accordance with article 25 (2) , shall set out in an implementing act the key performance indicators (‘kpis’) for each digital target. . ### (1) the commission shall monitor the progress of the union against the objectives and digital targets set out in articles 2 and 4. to this end , the commission shall rely upon digital economy and society index (desi) , and for the purpose of this decision , in accordance with article 25 (2) , shall set out in an implementing act the key performance indicators (‘kpis’) for each digital target. the commission shall develop a multi-criteria life-cycle assessment methodology to calculate the environmental impact of digital technologies , establish a digital environmental index and mainstream its use in the union.


### (1) the commission shall monitor the progress of the union against the objectives and digital targets set out in articles 2 and 4. to this end , the commission shall rely upon digital economy and society index (desi) , and for the purpose of this decision , in accordance with article 25 (2) , shall set out in an implementing act the key performance indicators (‘kpis’) for each digital target. . ### (1) the commission shall monitor the progress of the union against each of the objectives and digital targets set out in articles 2 and 4. to this end , the commission shall rely upon digital economy and society index (desi) , and for the purpose of this decision , in accordance with article 25 (2) , shall set out in an delegated act the key performance indicators (‘kpis’) for each digital target.


### (2) member states shall provide to the commission in a timely manner the necessary statistics and data required for the effective monitoring of the digital transition and of the degree of achievement of the digital targets set out in article 4. this shall include relevant information on the availability and accessibility of spectrum. where the relevant statistics from member states are not yet available , the commission may use an alternative data collection methodology , such as studies or direct collection of data from the member states , in consultation with the member states. the use of that alternative data collection methodology shall not affect the tasks of eurostat as laid down in commission decision 2012/504/eu47 . ### (2) member states shall provide to the commission in a timely manner the necessary statistics and data required for the effective monitoring of the digital transition and of the degree of achievement of the digital targets set out in article 4 and the objectives set out in article 2. this shall include relevant information on the availability and accessibility of spectrum. where the relevant statistics from member states are not yet available , the commission may use an alternative data collection methodology , such as studies or direct collection of data from the member states , in consultation with the member states. the use of that alternative data collection methodology shall not affect the tasks of eurostat as laid down in commission decision 2012/504/eu.


### (2) member states shall provide to the commission in a timely manner the necessary statistics and data required for the effective monitoring of the digital transition and of the degree of achievement of the digital targets set out in article 4. this shall include relevant information on the availability and accessibility of spectrum. where the relevant statistics from member states are not yet available , the commission may use an alternative data collection methodology , such as studies or direct collection of data from the member states , in consultation with the member states. the use of that alternative data collection methodology shall not affect the tasks of eurostat as laid down in commission decision 2012/504/eu47 . ### (2) member states shall provide to the commission in a timely manner the necessary statistics and data required for the effective monitoring of the digital transition and of the degree of achievement of the digital targets set out in article 4 and the objectives set out in article 2. this shall include relevant information on detailed information at nuts 2 , regional and local level. where the relevant statistics from member states are not yet available , the commission may use an alternative data collection methodology , such as studies or direct collection of data from the member states , in consultation with the member states , in order to ensure that the regional and local level are properly documented. the use of that alternative data collection methodology shall not affect the tasks of eurostat as laid down in commission decision 2012/504/eu47 .


### (3) the commission , in close cooperation with member states , shall define union-level projected trajectories for the attainment of each of the digital targets , which would serve as basis for the monitoring and the national digital decade strategic roadmaps. where necessary , in light of technical , economic or societal developments , the commission shall update one or more of these projected trajectories. ### (3) the commission , in close cooperation with the european parliament and the member states , shall define union-level projected trajectories for the attainment of each of the digital targets , which would serve as basis for the monitoring and the national digital decade strategic roadmaps. where necessary , in light of technical , economic or societal developments , the commission shall update one or more of these projected trajectories.


### (1) the commission shall submit annually to the european parliament and the council a report on the “state of the digital decade”. this report shall be the comprehensive report of the commission on the progress on digital transformation of the union and it shall include the digital economy and society index (desi). ### (1) the commission shall submit annually to the european parliament and the council a report on the “state of the digital decade”. this report shall be the comprehensive report of the commission on the progress on digital transformation of the union and it shall include the digital economy and society index (desi) and the digital environmental impact index of digital technologies in europe.


### (2) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission shall provide an assessment of the progress of the union’s digital transition against the digital targets set out in article 4 as well as the state of compliance with the general objectives referred to in article 2 and the principles enshrined in the [insert title of solemn declaration]. the assessment of the progress made shall be based , in particular , on the analysis and key performance indicators in the desi as compared to union-level and , where applicable , national projected trajectories , and , where applicable , on the establishment of and progress regarding multi-country projects. ### (2) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission shall provide an assessment of the progress of the union’s digital transition against the digital targets set out in article 4 as well as the state of compliance with the general objectives referred to in article 2 and the principles enshrined in the [insert title of solemn declaration]. the assessment of the progress made shall be based , in particular , on the analysis and key performance indicators in the desi as compared to union-level and , where applicable , national projected trajectories , and , where applicable , on the establishment of and progress regarding multi-country projects. the report shall also include an assessment on the positive and negative impacts in the labour market , which looks at skills mismatches and analyse the steps taken to address these , broken down by age group and gender , and the inclusion of people with disabilities. it shall analyse the impact of digitalisation on vulnerable groups , especially those in non-standard forms of work , such as zero-hour contracts and platform workers , and the self-employed , as well as the impact of digitalisation on psychosocial , risks , precariousness , insecurity , musculoskeletal disorders and mental health , and must ensure that reaching those targets in compliance with eu legislation such as directive 2003/88/ec , directive 89/391/eec , directive 90/270/eec , directive 2019/1152 , directive 2019/1158 , the european pillar of social rights action plan and the new eu strategic framework on health and safety at work 2021-2027.


### (2) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission shall provide an assessment of the progress of the union’s digital transition against the digital targets set out in article 4 as well as the state of compliance with the general objectives referred to in article 2 and the principles enshrined in the [insert title of solemn declaration]. the assessment of the progress made shall be based , in particular , on the analysis and key performance indicators in the desi as compared to union-level and , where applicable , national projected trajectories , and , where applicable , on the establishment of and progress regarding multi-country projects. ### (2) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission shall provide an assessment of the progress of the union’s digital transition against the digital targets set out in article 4 as well as the compliance with the objectives referred to in article 2 and the principles enshrined in the [insert title of solemn declaration]. the assessment of the progress made shall be based , in particular , on the analysis and key performance indicators in the desi as compared to union , member state and regional level and , where applicable , national projected trajectories , and , where applicable , on the establishment of and progress regarding multi-country projects.


### (3) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission may recommend policies , measures or actions to be taken by member states in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve the digital targets set out in article 4 or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the “state of the digital decade”. those recommended policies , measures or actions may , in particular , address: ### (3) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission may recommend policies , measures or actions to be taken by member states in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve the digital targets set out in article 4 , where the objectives set out in article 2 were not respected , or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the “state of the digital decade”. those recommended policies , measures or actions may , in particular , address:


### (3) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission may recommend policies , measures or actions to be taken by member states in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve the digital targets set out in article 4 or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the “state of the digital decade”. those recommended policies , measures or actions may , in particular , address: ### (3) in the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the commission may recommend policies , measures or actions to be taken by member states in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve the digital targets set out in article 4 , where the objectives set out in article 2 were not respected or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the “state of the digital decade”. those recommended policies , measures or actions may , in particular , address:


### (1) by [six months after the entry into force of this decision- specific date to be inserted by op] , member states shall submit to the commission their national digital decade strategic roadmaps which shall be consistent with , and contribute to achieving at union level , the objectives and digital targets set out in this decision. member states and the commission shall take into account relevant sectoral initiatives and ensure consistency with them. ### (1) by [six months after the entry into force of this decision- specific date to be inserted by op] , member states shall submit to the commission their national digital decade strategic roadmaps which shall be consistent with , and contribute to achieving at union level , the objectives and digital targets set out in this decision. member states and the commission shall take into account relevant sectoral initiatives , and environmental costs , and ensure consistency with them.


### national projected trajectories contributing to relevant digital targets measurable at national level; ### national projected trajectories contributing to relevant digital targets measurable at national level and how the objectives are mainstreamed in these trajectories;


### national projected trajectories contributing to relevant digital targets measurable at national level; ### national projected trajectories contributing to relevant digital targets measurable at national and regional level and how the objectives are mainstreamed in these trajectories;


### the impact expected to be made on each digital target as a result of the implemented , adopted and planned policies , measures and actions; ### the impact expected to be made on each digital target broken down by age group and gender , as a result of the implemented , adopted and planned policies , measures and actions;


### (1) member states and the commission shall closely cooperate to identify ways to address deficiencies in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve one or more of the digital targets set out in article 4 or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the ”state of the digital decade”. this analysis shall take into account , in particular , the different capacities of member states to contribute to some of the digital targets and the risk that delays on certain of these targets may have a detrimental effect on the achievement of other digital targets. ### (1) member states and the commission shall closely cooperate to identify ways to address deficiencies in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve one or more of the digital targets set out in article 4 , the objectives in article 2 , or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the ”state of the digital decade”. this analysis shall take into account , in particular , the different capacities of member states to contribute to the digital targets , the costs of not reaching them , and the consequences of delays on reaching certain of these targets in relation to the achievement of other digital targets.


### (1) member states and the commission shall closely cooperate to identify ways to address deficiencies in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve one or more of the digital targets set out in article 4 or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the ”state of the digital decade”. this analysis shall take into account , in particular , the different capacities of member states to contribute to some of the digital targets and the risk that delays on certain of these targets may have a detrimental effect on the achievement of other digital targets. ### (1) member states and the commission shall closely cooperate to identify ways to address deficiencies in areas where progress was insufficient to achieve one or more of the digital targets set out in article 4 , the objectives in article 2 or where significant gaps and shortages have been identified based on the results of the report on the ”state of the digital decade”. this analysis shall take into account , in particular , the different capacities of member states to contribute to some of the digital targets and the risk that delays on certain of these targets may have a detrimental effect on the achievement of other digital targets.


### (3) within five months from the publication of the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the member states concerned shall submit to the commission adjustments to their national digital decade strategic roadmaps consisting of policies , measures and actions they intend to undertake , including , where relevant , proposals for multi-country projects , to foster progress in the areas concerned by the digital targets set out in article 4 and to fulfill objectives set out in article 2. if a member state considers that no action is required and that its national digital decade strategic roadmap does not require updating , it shall provide its reasons in writing. ### (3) within five months from the publication of the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the member states concerned shall submit to the commission adjustments to their national digital decade strategic roadmaps consisting of policies , measures and actions they intend to undertake , including , where relevant , proposals for multi-country projects , to foster progress not only in digitalisation but also in social inclusion , labour market inclusion , and gender inclusion for women in stem , in the areas concerned by the digital targets set out in article 4 and to fulfil objectives set out in article 2. if a member state considers that no action is required and that its national digital decade strategic roadmap does not require updating , it shall provide its reasons in writing.


### (3) within five months from the publication of the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the member states concerned shall submit to the commission adjustments to their national digital decade strategic roadmaps consisting of policies , measures and actions they intend to undertake , including , where relevant , proposals for multi-country projects , to foster progress in the areas concerned by the digital targets set out in article 4 and to fulfill objectives set out in article 2. if a member state considers that no action is required and that its national digital decade strategic roadmap does not require updating , it shall provide its reasons in writing. ### (3) within five months from the publication of the report on the “state of the digital decade” , the member states concerned shall submit to the commission adjustments to their national digital decade strategic roadmaps consisting of policies , measures and actions they intend to undertake , including , where relevant , proposals for multi-country projects , to foster progress in the areas concerned by the digital targets set out in article 4 and to achieve the objectives set out in article 2. if a member state considers that no action is required and that its national digital decade strategic roadmap does not require updating , it shall provide its reasons in writing.


### (4) at any point of the annual cooperation , the commission and one or more member states may undertake joint commitments , consult with other member states on policy , measures or actions or establish multi-country projects as provided for in article 12. the commission or a member state which has proposed a policy , a measure or an action may also request a peer review process to be launched regarding specific aspects of that policy , measure or action , and in particular on its suitability to contribute to achieving a specific digital target. the outcome of the peer review process may be included in the following report on the “state of the digital decade”. ### (4) at any point of the annual cooperation , the commission and one or more member states may undertake joint commitments , consult with other member states on policy , measures or actions or establish multi-country projects as provided for in article 12. a member state which has proposed a policy , a measure or an action may also request a peer review process to be launched regarding specific aspects of that policy , measure or action , and in particular on its suitability to contribute to achieving a specific digital target. the outcome of the peer review process may be included in the following report on the “state of the digital decade”.


### (1) the commission shall closely cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners , to collect information and develop recommended policies , measures and actions for the purposes of the implementation of this decision. ### (1) the commission shall closely cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners and civil society , to collect information and develop recommended policies , measures and actions for the purposes of the implementation of this decision.


### (2) the member states shall cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners , in line with the national legislation , when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments. ### (2) the member states shall cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners and civil society , in line with the national legislation , when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments.


### (2) the member states shall cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners , in line with the national legislation , when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments. ### (2) the member states shall cooperate with private and public stakeholders , including social partners , in line with the national legislation , and civil society when adopting their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and their adjustments.


### (1) the general objective of the multi-country projects shall be to facilitate the achievement of the digital targets. ### (1) the general objective of the multi-country projects shall be to facilitate the achievement of the digital targets while ensuring that the objectives described in article 2 are achieved.


### (1) the general objective of the multi-country projects shall be to facilitate the achievement of the digital targets. ### (1) the general objective of the multi-country projects shall be to facilitate the achievement of the digital targets , while ensuring that the objectives laid down in article 2 are achieved.


### reinforcing the union’s technology excellence and industrial competitiveness in critical technologies , digital products , services and infrastructures that are essential for economic recovery and prosperity , for citizens’ security and safety; ### reinforcing the union’s technology excellence and industrial competitiveness in critical technologies , digital products , services and infrastructures that are essential for economic recovery , prosperity , well-being , and the security and safety of individuals;


### reinforcing the union’s technology excellence and industrial competitiveness in critical technologies , digital products , services and infrastructures that are essential for economic recovery and prosperity , for citizens’ security and safety; ### reinforcing the union’s technology excellence and industrial competitiveness in critical technologies , digital products , services and infrastructures that are essential for economic recovery and prosperity , for the economic well-being , security and safety of individuals;


### addressing strategic vulnerabilities and dependencies of the union along the digital supply chains; ### addressing strategic , geographical , and demographical , vulnerabilities and dependencies of the union along the digital supply chains;


### contributing to a sustainable digital transformation of society and the economy that benefits all businesses and citizens across the union; ### contributing to a sustainable digital transformation of society and the economy that benefits all businesses , and society as a whole , including those who fall outside of the labour market , across the union;


### contributing to a sustainable digital transformation of society and the economy that benefits all businesses and citizens across the union; ### contributing to a sustainable digital transformation of society and the economy that benefits all businesses , all socio-economic groups and individuals across the union;


### (3) other entities , whether public or private , may contribute to multi-country projects where appropriate. ### (3) other entities , whether public or private , may contribute to multi-country projects where appropriate. private contributions must not result in restrictions to the availability of the outcomes of the projects for individuals and businesses in the union.


### (3) an edic shall have in each member state the most extensive legal capacity accorded to legal entities under the law of that member state. it may , in particular , acquire , own and dispose of movable , immovable and intellectual property , conclude contracts and be a party to legal proceedings. ### (3) an edic shall have in each member state the most extensive legal capacity accorded to legal entities under the law of that member state. it may , in particular , acquire , own and dispose of movable and immovable property , conclude contracts and be a party to legal proceedings.


### (4) an edic may be open to the participation of entities other than member states , which may include inter alia international organizations and private entities , as specified in the statutes. if this is the case , member states shall hold jointly the majority of the voting rights in the assembly of members regardless of the amount of contributions from entities other than member states. ### (4) an edic may be open to the participation of entities other than member states , which may include inter alia international organizations and private entities , as specified in the statutes. if this is the case , member states shall hold jointly the majority of the voting rights in the assembly of members or enough votes to make any decision , regardless of the amount of contributions from entities other than member states.


### rules on the ownership of infrastructure , intellectual property and other assets , as applicable. ### rules on the ownership of property.


### (23) the cooperative dialogue between the commission and the member states should commence with the assessment of their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and should be based on the data provided and assessment made in the report of the state of the digital decade , as well as on the feedback received by relevant stakeholders. ### (23) the cooperative dialogue between the commission and the member states should commence with the assessment of their national digital decade strategic roadmaps and should be based on the data provided and assessment made in the report of the state of the digital decade , as well as on the feedback received by relevant stakeholders , including civil society.


### at least 10 000 climate neutral highly secure “edge nodes” are deployed in the union , distributed in a way that guarantees access to data services with low latency (few milliseconds) wherever businesses are located; ### at least 10 000 climate neutral highly secure “edge nodes” are deployed in the union , distributed in a way that guarantees a significant contribution to achieving energy consumption reduction , contribute to climate goals and offers secure access to data services with low latency (few milliseconds) wherever businesses are located;


### more than 90% of union small and medium enterprises (‘sme’) reach at least a basic level of digital intensity; ### more than 90% of union small and medium enterprises (‘sme’) reach at least a basic level of digital intensity , while 75% of the union's support is targeted at regional and local level for small and micro enterprises;


### (1) ‘digital economy and society index (‘desi’)’ means an annual set of analysis and measurement indicators on the basis of which the commission monitors the union’s and member states’ overall digital performance across several policy dimensions , including their progress towards the digital targets set out in article 4 ; ### (1) ‘digital economy and society index (‘desi’)’ means an annual set of analysis and measurement indicators on the basis of which the commission monitors the union’s and member states’ overall digital performance across several policy and geographic dimensions , including nuts 2 level and their progress towards the digital targets set out in article 4 ;


### the production of cutting-edge and sustainable semiconductors in the union is at least 20% of world production in value; ### the sustainable and environmentally suitable production of cutting-edge and sustainable semiconductors in the union is at least 20% of world production in value;


### the union grows the pipeline of its innovative scale ups and improves their access to finance , leading to at least doubling the number of unicorns; ### the union facilitates the growth of scale ups , including their access to finance;


### policies , measures and actions at member state-level and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance; ### policies , measures and actions at member state and regional level and other policies and measures of potential cross-border relevance;


### (3) the policies , measures and actions referred to in point (a) shall relate to the achievement of the objectives and the digital targets of this decision for which at the date of submission of the national digital decade strategic roadmaps or of the adjustment of those roadmaps one or more of the following applies: ### deleted


### (4) member states shall provide a general overview of the investment needed to contribute to the objectives and digital targets as set out in their national digital decade strategic roadmaps , as well as a general description on the sources of that investment , including , where applicable , planned use of union programmes and instruments. the national digital decade strategic roadmaps may include proposals for multi-country projects. ### (4) member states shall provide a general overview of the investment needed to contribute to the achievement of the objectives and digital targets as set out in their national digital decade strategic roadmaps , as well as a general description on the sources of that investment , including , where applicable , planned use of union programmes and instruments. the national digital decade strategic roadmaps may include proposals for multi-country projects.


### (2) multi-country projects shall aim at one or more of the following specific objectives: ### (2) multi-country projects shall aim at one or more of the following specific goals:


### (5) the commission may adopt a recommendation to set up a multi-country project or to invite a member state to participate in a multi-country project meeting the requirements of paragraphs (1) to (3) , taking into account the progress implementing the national digital decade strategic roadmaps and the adherence to the commission’s recommended actions. the commission and member states may also undertake to set up , or join , a multi-country project as a joint commitment. ### (5) the commission may adopt a recommendation to set up a multi-country project or to invite a member state to participate in a multi-country project meeting the requirements of paragraphs (1) to (3) , taking into account the progress implementing the national digital decade strategic roadmaps and objectives , as well as adherence to the commission’s recommended actions. the commission and member states may also undertake to set up , or join , a multi-country project as a joint commitment.


### (1) one of the objectives of directive 2014/53/eu of the european parliament and of the council11 is to guarantee the proper functioning of the internal market. pursuant to article 3(3) , point (a) , of that directive , one of the essential requirements that radio equipment must fulfil is that it interoperates with accessories , in particular with common chargers. in that respect , recital (12) of directive 2014/53/eu indicates that the interoperability between radio equipment and accessories such as chargers simplifies the use of radio equipment and reduces unnecessary waste and costs. ### (1) one of the objectives of directive 2014/53/eu of the european parliament and of the council11 is to guarantee the proper functioning of the internal market. pursuant to article 3(3) , point (a) , of that directive , one of the essential requirements that radio equipment must fulfil is that it interoperates with accessories , in particular with common chargers. in that respect , recital (12) of directive 2014/53/eu indicates that the interoperability between radio equipment and accessories such as chargers simplifies the use of radio equipment and reduces unnecessary waste and costs and that developing a common charger for certain categories or classes of radio equipment is necessary , particularly for the benefit of consumers. this is also in line with the goals of the european green deal and should therefore be achieved.


### (2) since 2009 , efforts have been deployed at union level to limit the fragmentation of the charging interfaces for mobile phones and similar items of radio equipment. recent voluntary initiatives do not fully meet union policy objectives to reduce electronic waste (e-waste) , ensure consumer convenience and avoid fragmentation of the market for charging devices. ### (2) since 2009 , efforts have been deployed at union level to limit the fragmentation of the charging interfaces for mobile phones and similar items of radio equipment. nevertheless , the single market is not exploiting its full potential and the continuing fragmentation of the market for chargers and charging interfaces for mobile phones and other categories or classes of radio equipment translates into an increase in electronic waste (e-waste) and consumer frustration. recent voluntary initiatives have proved unsuccessful to meet union policy objectives to reduce e-waste , ensure consumer convenience and avoid fragmentation of the market for charging devices. to date , there are no voluntary commitments or binding requirements on common chargers or charging interfaces for mobile phones or other similar portable devices. a comprehensive approach at union level is needed to address the risks related to the continued market fragmentation , to minimise the environmental impact of portable product chargers and to empower consumers by providing them with a sustainable choice when buying such products.


### (1) in order to tackle unfair commercial practices which prevent consumers from making sustainable consumption choices , such as practices associated with the early obsolescence of goods , misleading environmental claims (“greenwashing”) , non-transparent and non-credible sustainability labels or sustainability information tools , specific rules should be introduced in union consumer law. this would enable national competent bodies to address those practices effectively. by ensuring that environmental claims are fair , consumers will be able to choose products that are genuinely better for the environment than competing products. this will encourage competition towards more environmentally sustainable products , thus reducing negative impact on the environment. ### (1) in order to tackle unfair commercial practices which prevent consumers from making sustainable consumption choices , such as practices associated with the early obsolescence of goods , misleading or false environmental claims (“greenwashing”) , non-transparent , non-certified and non-credible sustainability labels or sustainability information tools , specific rules should be introduced in union consumer law. this would enable national competent bodies to address those practices effectively. by ensuring that environmental claims are reliable and fair , consumers will be able to choose products that are genuinely better for the environment than competing products. this will encourage competition towards more environmentally sustainable products , thus reducing negative impact on the environment.


### (3) in order to deter traders from deceiving consumers as regards the environmental or social impact , durability or reparability of their products , including through the overall presentation of the products , article 6(1) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended by adding the environmental or social impact , durability and reparability of the product to the list of the main characteristics of the product in respect of which the trader’s practices can be considered misleading , following a case-by-case assessment. information provided by traders on the social sustainability of products , such as working conditions , charity contributions or animal welfare , should not mislead consumers either. ### (3) in order to deter traders from deceiving consumers as regards the environmental or social impact , durability or reparability of their products , including through the overall presentation of the products , article 6(1) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended by adding the environmental or social impact , durability and reparability of the product to the list of the main characteristics of the product in respect of which the trader’s practices can be considered misleading , following a case-by-case assessment. information provided by traders on the social sustainability of products , such as working conditions , charity contributions or animal welfare , should not mislead consumers either. this includes statements such as “fairly produced” , “sustainable sound production” , "socially just". making generic social claim should therefore be added to the annex i of this directive.


### (3) in order to deter traders from deceiving consumers as regards the environmental or social impact , durability or reparability of their products , including through the overall presentation of the products , article 6(1) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended by adding the environmental or social impact , durability and reparability of the product to the list of the main characteristics of the product in respect of which the trader’s practices can be considered misleading , following a case-by-case assessment. information provided by traders on the social sustainability of products , such as working conditions , charity contributions or animal welfare , should not mislead consumers either. ### (3) in order to deter traders from deceiving consumers as regards the environmental or social impact , durability or reparability of their products , including through the overall presentation of the products , article 6(1) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended by adding the environmental or social impact , durability and reparability of the product to the list of the main characteristics of the product in respect of which the trader’s practices can be considered misleading , following a case-by-case assessment. information provided by traders on the social sustainability of products , such as working conditions , charity contributions or animal welfare , should not mislead consumers either. annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should be amended to prohibit making generic social claims.


### (4) environmental claims , in particular climate-related claims , increasingly relate to future performance in the form of a transition to carbon or climate neutrality , or a similar objective , by a certain date. through such claims , traders create the impression that consumers contribute to a low-carbon economy by purchasing their products. to ensure the fairness and credibility of such claims , article 6(2) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended to prohibit such claims , following a case-by-case assessment , when they are not supported by clear , objective and verifiable commitments and targets given by the trader. such claims should also be supported by an independent monitoring system to monitor the progress of the trader with regard to the commitments and targets. ### (4) environmental claims , in particular climate-related claims , increasingly relate to future performance in the form of a transition to carbon or climate neutrality , or a similar objective , by a certain date. through such claims , traders create the impression that consumers contribute to a low-carbon economy by purchasing their products. in the same vein , fossil fuel advertising suggests absolute environmental benefit of fossil fuels that are likely to be understood as factual statements by consumers whereas this is misleading. to ensure the fairness and credibility of such claims , article 6(2) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended to prohibit such claims , following a case-by-case assessment , when based on offsetting schemes or when they are not supported by clear , objective and verifiable commitments and targets given by the trader as well as complemented by a realistic implementation plan to achieve this future environmental performance through the establishment of interim targets , based on existent and economically viable technologies , and allocation of sufficient resources. those plans should be made publicly available and regularly reviewed and updated. traders relying on such claims should also be supported by an accredited independent monitoring system to monitor the progress of the implementation plan with regard to the commitments and targets.


### (4) environmental claims , in particular climate-related claims , increasingly relate to future performance in the form of a transition to carbon or climate neutrality , or a similar objective , by a certain date. through such claims , traders create the impression that consumers contribute to a low-carbon economy by purchasing their products. to ensure the fairness and credibility of such claims , article 6(2) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended to prohibit such claims , following a case-by-case assessment , when they are not supported by clear , objective and verifiable commitments and targets given by the trader. such claims should also be supported by an independent monitoring system to monitor the progress of the trader with regard to the commitments and targets. ### (4) environmental claims , in particular climate-related claims , increasingly relate to future performance in the form of a transition to carbon or climate neutrality , or a similar objective , by a certain date. through such claims , traders create the impression that consumers contribute to a low-carbon economy by purchasing their products. to ensure the fairness and credibility of such claims , article 6(2) of directive 2005/29/ec should be amended to prohibit such claims , following a case-by-case assessment , when they are based on offsetting schemes or not supported by clear , objective and verifiable commitments and targets given by the trader including a realistic implementation plan which should include concrete and verifiable interim targets without relying on offsets , and be based on existing technologies only. that plan should have sufficient budget allocated to it. such claims should also be supported by an independent monitoring system to monitor the progress of the trader with regard to the commitments and targets. before making an environmental claim related to future environmental performance , the claim , the underlying commitments and targets and the implementation plan should be verified and approved by an independent monitoring system. the trader making a claim should report on the progress towards the claimed future environmental performance , based on the implementation plan , on an annual basis. the implementation plan and all progress reports should be publicly available. the independent monitoring system should review the annual progress reports and should be enabled to revoke the right to make a certain claim if the progress reports do not show sufficient progress.


### (7) the displaying of sustainability labels which are not based on a certification scheme or not established by public authorities should be prohibited by including such practices in the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec. the certification scheme should fulfil minimum transparency and credibility conditions. the displaying of sustainability labels remains possible without a certification scheme where such labels are established by a public authority , or in case of additional forms of expression and presentation of food in accordance with article 35 of regulation (eu) no 1169/2011. this rule complements point 4 of annex i to directive 2005/29/ec which prohibits claiming that a trader , the commercial practices of a trader , or a product has been approved , endorsed or authorised by a public or private body when it has not , or making such a claim without complying with the terms of the approval , endorsement or authorisation. ### (7) the displaying of sustainability labels , comparison and information tools which were not pre-approved by a national or an eu authority should be prohibited by including such practices in the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec. such pre-approval of sustainability label , comparison and information tools should be subject to minimum requirements such as publicly available award criteria , developed through independent processes and going beyond what is required by eu legislation , impartial control procedures through accredited third-party verification schemes; accessibility and affordability for all market players , transparency for consumers on both processes and decision-taking; scientific robustness and stakeholder relevance , availability of compliance and dispute resolution mechanisms , regular review and update of award criteria. in case a sustainability label or an information and comparison tool concerns one environmental aspect of a product or service , this should be clearly displayed to consumers. all pre-approved sustainability labels and information and comparison tools should be registered in a database available to the public. sustainability labels established by public authorities should not undergo a pre-approval procedure. this rule complements point 4 of annex i to directive 2005/29/ec which prohibits claiming that a trader , the commercial practices of a trader , or a product has been approved , endorsed or authorised by a public or private body when it has not , or making such a claim without complying with the terms of the approval , endorsement or authorisation.


### (7) the displaying of sustainability labels which are not based on a certification scheme or not established by public authorities should be prohibited by including such practices in the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec. the certification scheme should fulfil minimum transparency and credibility conditions. the displaying of sustainability labels remains possible without a certification scheme where such labels are established by a public authority , or in case of additional forms of expression and presentation of food in accordance with article 35 of regulation (eu) no 1169/2011. this rule complements point 4 of annex i to directive 2005/29/ec which prohibits claiming that a trader , the commercial practices of a trader , or a product has been approved , endorsed or authorised by a public or private body when it has not , or making such a claim without complying with the terms of the approval , endorsement or authorisation. ### (7) the displaying of sustainability labels or sustainability information tools which were not pre-approved by a union body or a national authority and which are not based on an accredited certification scheme or not established by public authorities should be prohibited by including such practices in the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec. sustainability labels or sustainability information tools that have been pre-approved should be recognised by all member states according to the principle of mutual recognition and should fulfil certain minimum requirements. the commission should be empowered to adopt a delegate acts to set out the minimum requirements for such labels and tools. the certification scheme should fulfil minimum transparency and credibility conditions consistent with the united nations environment programme guidelines on product sustainability information and should be accredited in accordance with regulation (ec) no 765/2008 of the european parliament and of the council1a. the displaying of sustainability labels remains possible without a certification scheme where such labels are established by a public authority , or in case of additional forms of expression and presentation of food in accordance with article 35 of regulation (eu) no 1169/2011. this rule complements point 4 of annex i to directive 2005/29/ec which prohibits claiming that a trader , the commercial practices of a trader , or a product has been approved , endorsed or authorised by a public or private body when it has not , or making such a claim without complying with the terms of the approval , endorsement or authorisation.


### (9) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit making generic environmental claims without recognised excellent environmental performance which is relevant to the claim. examples of such generic environmental claims are ‘environmentally friendly’ , ‘eco-friendly’ , ‘eco’ , ‘green’ , ‘nature’s friend’ , ‘ecological’ , ‘environmentally correct’ , ‘climate friendly’ , ‘gentle on the environment’ , ‘carbon friendly’ , ‘carbon neutral’ , ‘carbon positive’ , ‘climate neutral’ , ‘energy efficient’ , ‘biodegradable’ , ‘biobased’ or similar statements , as well as broader statements such as ‘conscious’ or ‘responsible’ that suggest or create the impression of excellent environmental performance. such generic environmental claims should be prohibited whenever there is no excellent environmental performance demonstrated or whenever the specification of the claim is not provided in clear and prominent terms on the same medium , such as the same advertising spot , product’s packaging or online selling interface. for example , the claim ‘biodegradable’ , referring to a product , would be a generic claim , whilst claiming that ‘the packaging is biodegradable through home composting in one month’ would be a specific claim , which does not fall under this prohibition. ### (9) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit making generic environmental claims without recognised excellent environmental performance which is relevant to the claim. examples of such generic environmental claims are ‘environmentally friendly’ , ‘eco-friendly’ , ‘eco’ , ‘green’ , ‘nature’s friend’ , 'natural' , 'animal-friendly' , 'cruelty-free' , 'sustainable' , ‘ecological’ , ‘environmentally correct’ , ‘climate friendly’ , ‘gentle on the environment’ , 'deforestation-free' , ‘carbon friendly’ , ‘carbon neutral’ , ‘carbon positive’ , ‘carbon-proof certified’ , ‘carbon neutral certified’ , ‘climate neutral’ , ‘energy efficient’ , ‘biodegradable’ , ‘plastic neutral’ , ‘plastic-free’ , ‘biobased’ or similar statements , as well as broader statements such as ‘conscious’ or ‘responsible’ that suggest or create the impression of excellent environmental performance. such generic environmental claims should be prohibited whenever they are based on offsetting of environmental impacts such as purchase of carbon or plastic credits , or whenever there is no excellent environmental performance demonstrated or whenever the specification of the claim , based on scientific and objective methodologies such as the product environmental footprint set out in the commission recommendation(eu)2021/2279 or equivalent methods established under union or national law , is not provided in clear and prominent terms on the same medium , such as the same advertising spot , product’s packaging or online selling interface. this is particularly important to prohibit claims suggesting that a product or service has a neutral or positive carbon emissions’ impact on the environment in the sense that they mislead consumers by making them believe that the product they buy has no impact on the environment while it cannot be substantiated by scientific evidence.


### (9) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit making generic environmental claims without recognised excellent environmental performance which is relevant to the claim. examples of such generic environmental claims are ‘environmentally friendly’ , ‘eco-friendly’ , ‘eco’ , ‘green’ , ‘nature’s friend’ , ‘ecological’ , ‘environmentally correct’ , ‘climate friendly’ , ‘gentle on the environment’ , ‘carbon friendly’ , ‘carbon neutral’ , ‘carbon positive’ , ‘climate neutral’ , ‘energy efficient’ , ‘biodegradable’ , ‘biobased’ or similar statements , as well as broader statements such as ‘conscious’ or ‘responsible’ that suggest or create the impression of excellent environmental performance. such generic environmental claims should be prohibited whenever there is no excellent environmental performance demonstrated or whenever the specification of the claim is not provided in clear and prominent terms on the same medium , such as the same advertising spot , product’s packaging or online selling interface. for example , the claim ‘biodegradable’ , referring to a product , would be a generic claim , whilst claiming that ‘the packaging is biodegradable through home composting in one month’ would be a specific claim , which does not fall under this prohibition. ### (9) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit making generic environmental claims without recognised excellent environmental performance which is relevant to the claim. examples of such generic environmental claims are ‘environmentally friendly’ , ‘eco-friendly’ , ‘eco’ , ‘green’ , ‘nature’s friend’ , ‘ecological’ , ‘environmentally correct’ , ‘climate friendly’ , ‘gentle on the environment’ , ‘carbon friendly’ , ‘carbon neutral’ , ‘carbon positive’ , ‘climate neutral’ , ‘plastic neutral’ , ‘energy efficient’ , ‘biodegradable’ , ‘biobased’ or similar statements , as well as broader statements such as ‘conscious’ or ‘responsible’ that suggest or create the impression of excellent environmental performance. such generic environmental claims should be prohibited whenever they are based on offsetting of environmental impacts through , for example purchase of carbon or plastic credits , or whenever there is no excellent environmental performance demonstrated or whenever the specification of the claim , using science-based assessment tools such as the updated product environmental footprint method set out in commission recommendation (eu) 2021/22791a or , where relevant , equivalent methods allowed under regulation (eu) …/... [ecodesign for sustainable products regulation] or equivalent methods established under union or national law , is not provided in clear and prominent terms in the immediate proximity of the claim on the same medium , such as the same advertising spot , product’s packaging or online selling interface.


### (12) the circular economy action plan24 provides for the need to set the rules on environmental claims using product and organisation environmental footprint methods. additional requirements on environmental claims will have to be set in specific union legislation. those new requirements will contribute to the green deal25 objective of enabling buyers to make more sustainable decisions and reduce the risk of greenwashing through reliable , comparable and verifiable information. ### (12) the circular economy action plan24 provides for the need to set the rules on environmental claims using product and organisation environmental footprint methods. additional requirements setting a pre-approval procedure for environmental claims will have to be set in specific union legislation. those new requirements will contribute to the green deal25 objective of enabling buyers to make more sustainable decisions and reduce the risk of greenwashing through reliable , comparable and verifiable information.


### (14) in order to improve the welfare of consumers , the amendments to annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also address several practices associated with early obsolescence , including planned obsolescence practices , understood as a commercial policy involving deliberately planning or designing a product with a limited useful life so that it prematurely becomes obsolete or non-functional after a certain period of time. purchasing products that are expected to last longer than they actually do causes consumer detriment. furthermore , early obsolescence practices have an overall negative impact on the environment in the form of increased material waste. therefore , addressing those practices are also likely to reduce the amount of waste , contributing to a more sustainable consumption. ### (14) in order to improve the welfare of consumers , the amendments to annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also address several practices associated with early obsolescence , including planned obsolescence practices. planned obsolescence is generally understood as a commercial policy involving deliberately planning or designing a product with a limited useful life so that it prematurely becomes obsolete or non-functional after a certain period of time. premature obsolescence of products can occur when there is no deliberate intent to limit the lifetime of a product due , for example , to a design issue that leads to early failure. hence , some minimum durability and reparability requirements for products should be established in regulation eu [ecodesign for sustainable products]. marketing products that do not respect these minimum requirements once established should be prohibited and give consumers access to remedies in case of infringement. purchasing products that are expected to last longer than they actually do causes consumer detriment. furthermore , early obsolescence practices have an overall negative impact on the environment in the form of increased material waste. therefore , addressing those practices are also likely to reduce the amount of waste , contributing to a more sustainable consumption.


### (15) it should be prohibited to omit to inform the consumer that a software update , including a security update , will negatively impact the use of goods with digital elements or certain features of those goods , even if the update improves the functioning of other features. for example , when inviting consumers to update the operating system on their smartphone , the trader will have to inform the consumer if such an update will negatively impact the functioning of any of the features of the smartphone. ### (15) it should be prohibited to provide the consumer a software update , including a security update , that will negatively impact the use of goods with digital elements or certain features of those goods , even if the update improves the functioning of other features. furthermore , it should be prohibited to supply security updates together with functionality updates or other feature-related upgrades.


### (16) it should also be prohibited to omit to inform the consumer about the existence of a feature of the good introduced to limit its durability. for example , such a feature could be software which stops or downgrades the functionality of the good after a particular period of time , or it could be a piece of hardware which is designed to fail after a particular period of time. the prohibition of omitting to inform consumers of such features of the goods complements and does not affect the remedies available to consumers when they constitute a lack of conformity under directive (eu) 2019/771 of the european parliament and of the council26 . for such a commercial practice to be considered unfair , it should not be necessary to demonstrate that the purpose of the feature is to stimulate the replacement of the respective good. the use of features limiting the durability of the goods should be distinguished from manufacturing practices using materials or processes of general low quality resulting in limited durability of the goods. lack of conformity of a good resulting from the use of low quality materials or processes should continue to be governed by the rules on the conformity of goods set out in directive (eu) 2019/771. ### (16) it should also be prohibited to introduce feature into the design of the good to limit its durability. for example , such a feature could be software which stops or downgrades the functionality of the good after a particular period of time , or it could be a piece of hardware which is designed to fail after a particular period of time. the prohibition of introduction of such features of the goods complements and does not affect the remedies available to consumers when they constitute a lack of conformity under directive (eu) 2019/771 of the european parliament and of the council26 . for such a commercial practice to be considered unfair , it should not be necessary to demonstrate that the purpose of the feature is to stimulate the replacement of the respective good. the use of features limiting the durability of the goods should be distinguished from manufacturing practices using materials or processes of general low quality resulting in limited durability of the goods. lack of conformity of a good resulting from the use of low quality materials or processes should continue to be governed by the rules on the conformity of goods set out in directive (eu) 2019/771.


### (18) similarly , annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit presenting products as allowing repair when such repair is not possible , as well as omitting to inform consumers that it is not possible to repair goods in accordance with legal requirements. ### (18) similarly , annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit the marketing of products that cannot be repaired , in accordance with legal requirements under regulation eu [ecodesign for sustainable products].


### (20) another practice associated with early obsolescence which should be prohibited and added to the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec is inducing the consumer into replacing the consumables of a product earlier than would otherwise be necessary for technical reasons. such practices mislead the consumer into believing that the goods will no longer function unless their consumables are replaced , thus leading them to purchase more consumables than necessary. for example , the practice of urging the consumer , via the settings of the printer , to replace the printer ink cartridges before they are actually empty in order to stimulate the purchase of additional ink cartridges would be prohibited. ### (20) another practice associated with early obsolescence which should be prohibited and added to the list in annex i to directive 2005/29/ec is the marketing of goods that require replacing the consumables of a product earlier than would otherwise be necessary for technical reasons. such practices leads to situations where the goods will no longer function unless their consumables are replaced , thus leading consumers to purchase more consumables than necessary. for example , the practice of urging the consumer , via the settings of the printer , to replace the printer ink cartridges before they are actually empty in order to stimulate the purchase of additional ink cartridges would be prohibited.


### (21) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit omitting to inform the consumer that the good is designed to limit its functionality when using consumables , spare parts or accessories that are not provided by the original producer. for example , the marketing of printers that are designed to limit their functionality when using ink cartridges not provided by the original producer of the printer without disclosing this information to the consumer would be prohibited. this practice could mislead consumers into purchasing an alternative ink cartridge which cannot be used for that printer , thus leading to unnecessary repair costs , waste streams or additional costs due to the obligation to use the original producer’s consumables which the consumer could not foresee at the time of purchase. similarly , marketing smart devices designed to limit their functionality when using chargers or spare parts that are not provided by the original producer without disclosing this information to the consumer would be prohibited as well. ### (21) annex i to directive 2005/29/ec should also be amended to prohibit marketing of goods that are designed to limit their functionality when using consumables , spare parts or accessories that are not provided by the original producer. for example , the marketing of printers that are designed to limit their functionality when using ink cartridges not provided by the original producer of the printer without disclosing this information to the consumer would be prohibited. this practice could mislead consumers into purchasing an alternative ink cartridge which cannot be used for that printer , thus leading to unnecessary repair costs , waste streams or additional costs due to the obligation to use the original producer’s consumables. similarly , marketing smart devices designed to limit their functionality when using chargers or spare parts that are not provided by the original producer would be prohibited as well.


### (22) in order for consumers to take better informed decisions and stimulate the demand for , and the supply of , more durable goods , specific information about a product’s durability and reparability should be provided for all types of goods before concluding the contract. moreover , as regards goods with digital elements , digital content and digital services , consumers should be informed about the period of time during which free software updates are available. therefore , directive 2011/83/eu of the european parliament and of the council27 should be amended to provide consumers with pre-contractual information about durability , reparability and the availability of updates. information should be provided to consumers in a clear and comprehensible manner and in line with the accessibility requirements of directive 2019/88228 . the obligation to provide this information to consumers complements and does not affect the rights of consumers provided in directives (eu) 2019/77029 and (eu) 2019/77130 of the european parliament and of the council. ### (22) in order for consumers to take better informed decisions and stimulate the demand for , and the supply of , more durable goods , specific information about a product’s durability and reparability should be provided for all types of goods before concluding the contract , through clear and easy-to-understand labels or , when such labels are not required under union or national law , through minimum information requirements. moreover , as regards goods with digital elements , digital content and digital services , consumers should be informed about the period of time during which free software updates are available in accordance with requirements under union or national law , which is as a minimum , for a period of time that the consumer may reasonably expect. free software updates should include both security and functionality updates , to be provided independently from each other. therefore , directive 2011/83/eu of the european parliament and of the council27 should be amended to provide consumers with pre-contractual information about durability , reparability and the availability of updates. information should be provided to consumers in a clear and comprehensible manner and in line with the accessibility requirements of directive 2019/88228 . the obligation to provide this information to consumers complements and does not affect the rights of consumers provided in directives (eu) 2019/77029 and (eu) 2019/77130 of the european parliament and of the council.


### (23) a good indicator of a good’s durability is the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability within the meaning of article 17 of directive (eu) 2019/771. therefore , directive 2011/83/eu should be amended to specifically require traders selling goods to inform consumers about the existence of the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability for all types of goods , where the producer makes this information available. ### (23) a good indicator of a good’s durability is the duration of the legal guarantee of conformity , and where available , its voluntary extension provided by the trader or the producer free of charge therefore , directive 2011/83/eu should be amended to specifically require traders selling goods to inform consumers before the conclusion of the contract through a label on guaranteed lifetime of a good. such label should include as a minimum the duration of the legal guarantee of conformity , and where provided on a voluntary basis by the producer , the duration of its extension. information on availability of after-sales and repair services should also be provided.


### (24) the problem of limited durability contrary to consumer expectations is most relevant for energy-using goods , which are goods that function from an external energy source. consumers are also most interested in receiving information about the expected durability of this category of goods. for these reasons , only for this category of goods , consumers should be made aware that the information about the existence of a producer’s commercial guarantee of durability of more than two years has not been provided by the producer. ### deleted


### (25) goods containing energy-using components , where those components are mere accessories and do not contribute to the main function of those goods , such as decorative lighting for clothing or footwear or electric light for a bicycle , should not be classified as energy-using goods. ### deleted


### (26) in view of the established minimum duration of two years of the seller’s liability for lack of conformity in accordance with directive (eu) 2019/771 and the fact that many product failures occur after two years , the trader’s obligation to inform consumers about the existence and duration of the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability should apply to guarantees that are of more than two years. ### deleted


### (28) the producer and the seller should remain free to offer other types of commercial guarantees and after-sales services of any duration. however , the information provided to the consumer about such other commercial guarantees or services should not confuse the consumer with regard to the existence and duration of the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability that covers the entire good and has a duration of more than two years. ### deleted


### (29) to promote competition between producers as regards the durability of goods with digital elements the traders selling those goods should inform consumers about the minimum period of time during which the producer commits to provide software updates for such goods. however , to avoid overloading consumers with information , such information should only be provided when this period is longer than the period of the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability , as that guarantee entails the provision of updates , including security updates , that are necessary to maintain the required functions and performance of goods with digital elements. furthermore , information about the producer’s commitment to provide software updates is relevant only where the sales contract regarding goods with digital elements provides for a single act of supply of the digital content or digital service in respect of which article 7(3) , point (a) , of directive (eu) 2019/771 applies. in contrast , there should be no new obligation to provide that information where the sales contract provides for a continuous supply of the digital content or digital service over a period of time , since for those contracts article 7(3) , point (b) , of directive (eu) 2019/771 specifies , by reference to article 10 (2) or (5) , the period of time during which the seller is to ensure that the consumer is informed of and supplied with updates. ### (29) to promote competition between producers as regards the durability of goods with digital elements the traders selling those goods should inform consumers about the minimum period of time during which the producer commits to provide software updates for such goods. as a minimum this period of time should be the one the consumer may reasonably expect as required under directive 2019/771.


### (30) likewise , traders offering digital content and digital services should also inform consumers about the minimum period during which the provider of the digital content or digital service , where the provider is different from the trader , commits to provide software updates , including security updates , necessary to keep the digital content and digital services in conformity. information about the provider’s commitment to provide software updates is relevant only where the contract provides for a single act of supply or a series of individual acts of supply in respect of which article 8(2) , point (b) , of directive 2019/770 applies. in contrast , there should be no new obligation to provide that information where the contract provides for a continuous supply over a period of time , since for these contracts article 8(2) , point (a) of directive (eu) 2019/770 specifies the period of time during which the trader is to ensure that the consumer is informed of and supplied with updates. ### (30) likewise , traders offering digital content and digital services should also inform consumers about the minimum period during which the provider of the digital content or digital service , where the provider is different from the trader , commits to provide software updates , including security updates , necessary to keep the digital content and digital services in conformity. likewise , traders offering digital content and digital services should also inform consumers about the minimum period during which the provider of the digital content or digital service , where the provider is different from the trader , will provide software updates , including security updates , necessary to keep the digital content and digital services in conformity. this information should include as a minimum the mandatory period foreseen under eu law to provide such updates.


### (31) to allow consumers to make an informed transactional decision and choose goods that are easier to repair , traders should provide , before the conclusion of the contract , for all types of goods , where applicable , the reparability score of the good as provided by the producer in accordance with union law. ### (31) to allow consumers to make an informed transactional decision and choose goods that are easier to repair , traders should display , before the conclusion of the contract , for all types of goods , where applicable , the reparability score of the good as provided by the producer in accordance with union or national law.


### (32) pursuant to article 5(1) , point (e) , and article 6(1) , point (m) , of directive 2011/83/eu traders are obliged to provide the consumer before the consumer is bound by the contract with information on the existence and the conditions of after-sales services , including repair services , where such services are provided. in addition , in order to ensure that consumers are well informed about the reparability of the goods they purchase , where a reparability score is not established in accordance with union law , traders should provide , for all types of goods , other relevant repair information that is made available by the producer , such as information about the availability of spare parts , and a user and repair manual. ### (32) pursuant to article 5(1) , point (e) , and article 6(1) ,point (m) , of directive 2011/83/eu traders are obliged to provide the consumer before the consumer is bound by the contract with information on the existence and the conditions of after-sales services , including repair services , where such services are provided. in addition , in order to ensure that consumers are well informed about the reparability of the goods they purchase , where a reparability score is not established in accordance with union or national law , traders should provide , for all types of goods , other relevant repair information that is made available by the producer , such as information about the availability of spare parts , and a user and repair manual.


### (33) traders should provide consumers with information about the existence and duration of the producer’s commercial guarantee of durability , the minimum period for updates and the repair information other than the reparability score , where the producer or provider of the digital content or digital service , when different from the trader , makes the relevant information available. in particular , as regards goods , the trader should convey to consumers the information that the producer has provided to the trader or has otherwise intended to make readily available to the consumer before the conclusion of the contract , by indicating it on the product itself , its packaging or tags and labels that the consumer would normally consult before concluding the contract. the trader should not be required to actively search for such information from the producer , for example , on the product-specific websites. ### (33) traders should provide consumers with information about the duration of legal guarantee of conformity and , where provided by producer free of charge , its voluntary extension , the minimum period for updates and the repair information other than the reparability score ,. in particular , as regards goods , the trader should convey to consumers the information that the producer has provided to the trader or has otherwise intended to make readily available to the consumer before the conclusion of the contract , by indicating it on the product itself , its packaging or tags and labels that the consumer would normally consult before concluding the contract. the trader should not be required to actively search for such information from the producer , for example , on the product-specific websites. where the producer does not make this information available , the consumer should be informed thereof.


### ‘explicit environmental claim’ means an environmental claim that is in textual form or contained in a sustainability label; ### deleted


### ‘generic environmental claim’ means any explicit environmental claim , not contained in a sustainability label , where the specification of the claim is not provided in clear and prominent terms on the same medium; ### ‘generic environmental claim’ means an environmental claim in any form , not contained in a sustainability label , where the specification of the claim is not provided in clear and prominent terms on the same medium;


### ‘sustainability label’ means any voluntary trust mark , quality mark or equivalent , either public or private , that aims to set apart and promote a product , a process or a business with reference to its environmental or social aspects or both. this does not cover any mandatory label required in accordance with union or national law; ### ‘sustainability label’ means any voluntary trust mark , quality mark or equivalent , either public or private , that aims to set apart and promote a product , a process or a business with reference to its environmental or social aspects or both , and for which criteria are publicly available free of cost , developed and regularly updated through independent processes , while reflecting significant improvements compared to minimum product requirements under union or national law. this does not cover any mandatory label required in accordance with union or national law;


### ‘certification scheme’ means a third-party verification scheme that is open under transparent , fair and non-discriminatory terms to all traders willing and able to comply with the scheme’s requirements , which certifies that a product complies with certain requirements , and for which the monitoring of compliance is objective , based on international , union or national standards and procedures and carried out by a party independent from both the scheme owner and the trader; ### ‘certification scheme’ means a third-party verification scheme accredited in accordance with regulation 765/2008 that is open under publicly available transparent , fair and non-discriminatory terms and at reasonable costs to all traders willing and able to comply with the scheme’s requirements , which certifies that a product complies with certain transparent , scientific , verifiable and publicly available requirements , and for which the monitoring of compliance and award of the certificate are objective , based on international , union or national standards and procedures and carried out by a party independent from both the scheme owner and the trader;


### ‘sustainability information tool’ means software , including a website , part of a website or an application , operated by or on behalf of a trader , which provides information to consumers about environmental or social aspects of products , or which compares products on those aspects; ### ‘sustainability information and comparison tool’ means software , including a website , part of a website or an application , operated by or on behalf of a trader , which provides information to consumers about environmental or social aspects of products , or which compares products on those aspects. any comparison shall be objective , by , in particular , comparing products or features of a product which serve the same function , using a common methodology based on verifiable data;


### ‘durability’ means durability as defined in article 2 , point (13) , of directive (eu) 2019/771 of the european parliament and of the council**; ### ‘durability’ means the ability of a product to function and maintain for a certain period of time its required function and performance under normal conditions of use , maintenance and repair;


### the main characteristics of the product , such as its availability , benefits , risks , execution , composition , environmental or social impact , accessories , durability , reparability , after-sale customer assistance and complaint handling , method and date of manufacture or provision , delivery , fitness for purpose , usage , quantity , specification , geographical or commercial origin or the results to be expected from its use , or the results and material features of tests or checks carried out on the product.; ### the main characteristics of the product , such as its availability , benefits , risks , execution , composition , environmental or social impact , accessories , durability , reparability , reusability , recyclability , after-sale customer assistance and complaint handling , method and date of manufacture or provision , delivery , fitness for purpose , usage , quantity , specification , geographical or commercial origin or the results to be expected from its use , or the results and material features of tests or checks carried out on the product.;


### (4) in the past years , the practices in the european standardisation organisations as regards their internal governance and decision-making procedures have changed. as a result , the european standardisation organisations have increased their co-operation with international and european stakeholders. such cooperation is welcome as it contributes to the transparent , open , impartial and consensus-built standardisation process. however , when european standardisation organisations execute standardisation requests to support union legislation and policies , unrestricted participation of any stakeholder in their internal decision-making may lead to decisions that do not entirely take into account the interests , policy objectives , and values of the union as well as public interests in general. ### (4) in the past years , the practices in the european standardisation organisations as regards their internal governance and decision-making procedures have changed. as a result , the european standardisation organisations have increased their co-operation with international and european stakeholders. such cooperation is welcome as it contributes to the transparent , open , impartial and consensus-built standardisation process. however , when european standardisation organisations execute standardisation requests to support union legislation and policies , unrestricted participation of any stakeholder in their internal decision-making may lead to decisions that do not entirely take into account the interests , policy objectives , and values of the union as well as public interests in general. in order to prevent this scenario , the positions of european stakeholders should be duly reflected in the decisions of the european standardisation organisations and of the national standardisation bodies. furthermore , the participation of legal entities which are not incorporated in the member state concerned shall not amount to impede the adoption of any decision concerning european standards and european standardisation deliverables supported by the majority of all the other stakeholders participating in the national standardisation bodies.