ökomärgis

Ökomärgis is a term used in Estonian to denote an environmental label or ecolabel assigned to products or services that meet defined ecological criteria. The purpose is to communicate reduced environmental impact and to guide consumer choices toward more sustainable options. There is no single universal ökomärgis—several different ecolabel schemes may be described this way in everyday language. Issuers define sector-specific criteria, covering aspects such as energy and material efficiency, emissions, water use, waste management, packaging, durability, and chemical safety.

Certification processes vary by scheme but generally follow a common pattern. A company submits an application to the relevant labeling body, provides documentation and testing results, and may undergo on-site inspections. If the product or service meets the criteria, the body grants a license to use the label for a defined period, after which re-assessment is required. Independent verification and periodic audits are important to maintain credibility.

Impact and reception of ökomärgis depend on the clarity of criteria, transparency of the assessment, and enforcement against misuse. Credible labels help consumers compare products, encourage sustainable production, and support green procurement policies by organizations and governments.

Examples of widely recognized ecolabel schemes in Europe include the EU Ecolabel, the Nordic Swan, and the Blue Angel. In Estonian and Baltic contexts, these schemes may be referred to colloquially as ökomärgis, even though each scheme operates independently. See also ecolabel, sustainable product, green procurement.