What are sustainable labels?

Types of sustainability labels:

Eco-labels (ecological labels): These labels indicate that the product has a lower negative impact on the environment during its life cycle compared to products of the same purpose. An example is the EU Ecolabel, the official voluntary eco-label of the European Union, and the USA Ecolabel, which designate products and services with less adverse impact on the environment during the life cycle.

Organic labels: These labels confirm that the production fulfills the standards of organic agriculture, without synthetic pesticides or genetically modified organisms. An example is the EU Organic logo, which guarantees that the product meets the strict requirements of organic production prescribed by the EU.

Fair Trade Labels: These labels ensure that producers have received fair compensation for their work and that their labor rights have been respected. The Fairtrade label is one of the most well-known, guaranteeing that the product meets international fair trade standards.

Energy efficiency labels: These labels inform consumers about products' energy consumption, helping them choose energy-efficient options. The EU energy label classifies products from A+++ (most efficient) to D (least efficient).

Labels of sustainable management of resources: These labels confirm that resources in production were used sustainably. For example, the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) label guarantees that the wood used in the product was obtained from sustainably managed forests.

Why are these labels important?

Sustainability labels allow consumers to identify products that are more environmentally friendly, socially responsible, or economically sustainable. They provide transparency regarding production processes and help reduce negative impacts on the environment and society. They also encourage producers to adopt more sustainable practices to meet growing market demands for sustainable products.

How to recognize trusted tags?

It is important to pay attention to labels recognized by relevant institutions or based on official certification programs. Examples are presented in the table below.

Label

What it means

Typical products

Why it matters

EU Ecolabel

Products with reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle.

Detergents, textiles, tourism services.

Promotes eco-friendly products that minimize harm to the environment.

Blue Angel

Eco-friendly products with minimal environmental impact.

Electronics, furniture, paints, paper.

The world's oldest eco-label, setting high sustainability standards.

EU Organic Logo

Organic food and beverages produced according to EU standards.

Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, eggs.

Guarantees organic farming without pesticides or GMOs.

USDA Organic

Products meeting the standards of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for organic farming.

Food, beverages, cosmetics.

Ensures the quality and authenticity of organic products.

Fairtrade Certified

Farmers and workers receive fair prices and their rights are respected.

Coffee, chocolate, bananas, cotton, tea.

Supports poverty reduction and social justice.

Rainforest Alliance Certified

Products from sustainable farming that conserves biodiversity and supports livelihoods.

Food, beverages, timber, tourism.

Protects ecosystems and promotes workers' rights.

EU Energy Label

Energy efficiency classification from A+++ (best) to D (worst).

Home appliances, lighting, air conditioners.

Helps reduce energy consumption and costs.

Energy Star

Energy-efficient products meeting U.S. and EU standards.

Electronics, office equipment, heating.

Encourages reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)

Products made from wood sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Furniture, paper, construction materials.

Prevents illegal logging and protects forest resources.

MSC (Marine Stewardship Council)

Seafood from sustainably managed fisheries.

Fish, seafood.

Supports marine ecosystem conservation.

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

Organic textiles produced without harmful chemicals, ensuring environmental and social standards.

Clothing, bedding, fabrics.

Ensures sustainability in the textile industry.

COSMOS Standard

Natural and organic cosmetics with minimal environmental impact.

Creams, shampoos, soaps.

Promotes the use of natural ingredients and eco-friendly production.

How do sustainability labels benefit consumers and the planet?

Transparency for consumers: They enable an easy choice of environmentally friendly and socially responsible products.

Support sustainable practices: By purchasing products with sustainable labels, you support producers who work according to high standards.

Financial savings: Energy-efficient appliances reduce electricity bills, while organic food contributes to health, reducing health costs.

Sustainable labels are more than just stickers; they serve as guides to living a better life. By choosing products with these labels, we protect the planet, support fair systems, and ensure our well-being. Next time you buy a product, pay attention to the labels and become part of a sustainable change.