Ecolabel

An ecolabel is a label attached to a product or service indicating that it has met specific environmental performance criteria established by a recognized organization. Ecolabels aim to help consumers identify products with reduced environmental impact across their life cycle, from production to disposal, and to incentivize producers to improve environmental performance.

Criteria are developed through multi-stakeholder processes and typically cover resource use, energy and water efficiency, emissions, waste management, and biodiversity protection. Some ecolabels focus on a single attribute (e.g., energy efficiency), while others assess overall environmental performance across multiple criteria or life-cycle stages.

Certification involves conformity assessment by independent, accredited bodies. The label is awarded only after a product or service is tested or evaluated against the standard, and it must be renewed periodically to reflect ongoing compliance.

Ecolabels can be government-backed, such as the European Union Ecolabel, or industry or NGO-driven, such as the Blue Angel, Nordic Swan, or Green Seal. They are voluntary in most markets but may be required in certain procurement policies or regulated sectors.

Critics argue that ecolabels can be subject to greenwashing if criteria are vague or inadequate, or if there is inconsistent enforcement. Proponents contend that credible ecolabels raise consumer awareness, drive market transformation, and encourage cleaner production.

Examples include the EU Ecolabel, Blue Angel, Nordic Swan, Energy Star, and Green Seal, among others.