L5.3. Ecolabeling

Question 1

Ecolabelling

Answer 1

Ecolabelling is mainly a voluntary or mandatory method of environmental performance certification and labelling that is practised around the world. An “ecolabel” is a label which identifies overall, proven environmental preference of a product or service within a specific product/service category and it can be based on life cycle considerations. There are different classifications of label.

Question 2

Type I: Environmental Labels (ISO 14024)

Answer 2

• Mandatory Certification
• Issued by private or public, accredited institution
• Demonstrating environmental excellence

Question 3

Type II: Environmental Claims (ISO 14021)

Answer 3

• Self-declared environmental claims
• Issued by manufacturer
• Describing specific environmental characteristics

Question 4

Type III: Environmental Declarations (ISO 14025)

Answer 4

• Mandatory 3rd party validation of PCR, independent validation of EPD
• Issued by private institution
• Life cycle performance data

Question 5

Table Type I, II, III Characteristics

Answer 5

Criteria Areas (Multiple, Single, Multiple)
Life Cycle Consideration (Yes, No, Yes)
Selectivity (Yes, No, No)
Third Party Verification (Yes, Preferred, Yes)

Question 6

Product Category Rules

Answer 6

• The PCR collect the minimum necessary data to be included in the LCA study, the methodology of impacts to use and the contents of EPD
• If there is no PCR defined for a group of products, the programme may decide to develop them together with the collaboration of the manufacturer and interested third parties.