Økomerker

Økomerker are marks or symbols placed on products and services to indicate they meet certain environmental or sustainability criteria. They are part of consumer information aimed at helping people choose options with lower environmental impact. Økomerker can cover a range of aspects, including production methods, resource use, emissions, biodiversity, and in some cases social or ethical standards. Most økomerker are awarded by independent bodies or government agencies, and participation is usually voluntary, though some sectors have mandatory labeling in certain regions.

Common examples include the EU Ecolabel, known as the European flower, which covers a broad set of product groups and is valid across the EU and EEA. The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is used in the Nordic countries and serves a similar purpose for a variety of products and services. For products like wood and paper, forest-certification marks such as FSC and PEFC certify responsible forestry practices. Organic farming labels certify products produced according to organic standards, while social and ethical labels like Fair Trade address labor and community aspects. Energy efficiency labels, including programs like Energy Star and various regional energy labels, indicate reduced energy use in appliances and electronics.

Certification processes typically involve application by the producer, assessment against specific criteria by an independent body, and periodic audits or re-certification to maintain the mark. Critics warn against greenwashing and emphasize the importance of credible, transparent criteria and oversight. In practice, økomerker help consumers compare options and encourage better environmental performance, while requiring vigilance to ensure standards remain strict and meaningful.