Article 15 4.

consider the life cycle of the product and all its significant environmental aspects, inter alia, energy efficiency. The depth of analysis of the environmental aspects and of the feasibility of their improvement shall be proportionate to their significance. The adoption of ecodesign requirements on the significant environmental aspects of a product shall not be unduly delayed by uncertainties regarding the other aspects;

carry out an assessment, which shall consider the impact on the environment, consumers and manufacturers, including SMEs, in terms of competitiveness — including in relation to markets outside the Community — innovation, market access and costs and benefits;

take into account existing national environmental legislation that Member States consider relevant;

carry out appropriate consultation with stakeholders;

prepare an explanatory memorandum of the draft implementing measure based on the assessment referred to in point (b); and

set implementing date(s), any staged or transitional measure or periods, taking into account, in particular, possible impacts on SMEs or on specific product groups manufactured primarily by SMEs.