What is API (Application Programming Interface)?

An API (Application Programming Interface) is a structured set of rules and protocols that allows one software system to communicate with another. It acts as a bridge between different platforms, enabling data exchange and functionality sharing without exposing the internal codebase.

In simpler terms:

An API is like a waiter in a restaurant — it takes your order (request), delivers it to the kitchen (the system), and brings the result (response) back to you, without you needing to know how the kitchen works.

Why APIs matter in Digital Product Passports (DPPs)

In the world of Digital Product Passports, APIs are critical for seamless data exchange between manufacturers, supply chains, regulatory systems, and digital platforms. Here’s how they fit into the ecosystem:

• Data Retrieval and Updates: APIs allow systems (such as ERP software, PLM platforms, or government registries) to automatically push and pull passport data — like materials, repair history, carbon footprint, or compliance certifications.
• Interoperability: Since DPPs must be accessible across various sectors and countries, APIs ensure that different systems — even with different technologies — can interact securely and efficiently.
• Real-Time Validation: With APIs, businesses or regulators can instantly verify product information, check if updates are needed, or validate authenticity (e.g., when a QR code on a product is scanned).
• Consumer Access: When a consumer scans a QR code or NFC chip, APIs retrieve the product’s passport data from a central or decentralized server (like a blockchain or cloud platform) in real-time.

Example in practice:

A circular fashion brand uses an API to sync data from its manufacturing system to a centralized DPP registry. Every time a garment is repaired or resold, the update is pushed via API, ensuring the digital passport always reflects the true lifecycle of the product.