EUEcolabel

EU Ecolabel is the official European Union eco-label awarded to products and services that meet high environmental standards throughout their life cycle. It is voluntary and aims to help consumers identify environmentally preferable choices while encouraging manufacturers and service providers to reduce their environmental impact. The scheme is overseen by the European Commission in collaboration with national authorities and a network of notified bodies, and it operates under Regulation (EC) No 66/2010 and related acts.

For each product or service category, a specific set of criteria is established and periodically updated to reflect advances in technology and environmental thinking. The criteria take a life-cycle approach, addressing raw material selection, production processes, packaging, distribution, use, and end-of-life management. Typical requirements cover energy and water use, emissions, waste generation and recycling, resource efficiency, avoidance of toxic substances, sustainable sourcing, and clear consumer information.

Assessment and labeling involve an application to a national competent body or a designated notified body, which verifies compliance with the applicable criteria and may conduct audits and testing. If the product or service meets all requirements, it is granted the EU Ecolabel for a defined period, usually subject to renewal after a re-evaluation.

The EU Ecolabel covers a wide range of product groups and service categories, including cleaning products, paper, textiles, footwear, paints and coatings, electrical and electronic equipment, furniture, tires, and tourism-related services. It serves as a recognizable signal to consumers and public purchasers and aims to drive market transformation toward ongoing environmental improvement.