Oct 31 2008
Even armed with the best of environmental intentions it can be difficult to make good environmental choices when buying consumer goods.
When confronted by seven different brands in the supermarket, deciding which one is the best for our planet (as well as the dishes) can be tricky. But the European Ecolabel seeks to change this.
Environmental consultancy Oakdene Hollins has joined forces with TUV NEL, part of TÜV SÜD Group, the leading global technical services company, to help Defra manage the operation of the European Commission’s Ecolabel in the UK.
Working together as “UK Ecolabel Delivery” the team is aiming to increase uptake of the label further by working closely with manufacturers and retailers.
Signified by the flower logo, the Ecolabel is a Europe-wide voluntary scheme designed to encourage businesses to develop products and services that meet high environmental standards. At present, 23 different categories ranging from hotels and campsites to mattresses and floor coverings are included. Each Ecolabelled product or service meets strict criteria designed to reduce negative environmental impacts during manufacture, use and disposal. Oakdene Hollins will be providing technical advice and expertise in the development and revision of these criteria as well as assessing applications.
Nick Morley, Oakdene Hollins Director of Sustainable Innovation, commented, “Consumers need help in making good environmental choices, so we are delighted by the opportunity to ensure this prestigious label appears on many more products.”