Type I ecolabels according to the ISO 14024 standard will play an important role in the European Union in some proposed EU directives – especially the Green Claims Directive and directives on procurement. The Austrian ecolabel, the Nordic Swan, the Dutch label Milieukeur and the Blue Angel are all reliable ISO 14024 Type I ecolabels and subject to auditing by third parties.
A clear stance against greenwashing
Ecolabels provide consumers with guidance so that they can engage in sustainable and environmentally conscious consumption. However, the fact that companies can simply design and use their own labels is a problem. Companies often do this to give themselves a “greener” image – even if they have not actually taken any measures to protect the climate and environment or the measures they have taken are insufficient. This phenomenon is known as “greenwashing”.
It is combated by independent ecolabels – so-called Type I ecolabels (DIN ISO 14024) – that test and certify products according to strict and transparent criteria.
Legislation to stop greenwashing is currently being developed by the EU with the proposed Green Claims Directive.
You can find detailed information on the seminar on World Ecolabel Day 2024 on the Nordic Swan website. Full speed ahead for the green transition with ecolabelling.