Guide to ecolabels

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Guide to ecolabels

Open SPP FAQs

In this section, we include key information for understanding ecolabels, and the role they can play in facilitating SPP implementation.

What are ecolabels?

The Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN) defines ecolabelling as “a voluntary method of environmental performance certification and labeling that is practiced around the world”. In this way, an “ecolabel identifies products or services proven to be environmentally preferable within a specific category”. To possess an ecolabel, products must comply with a series of criteria. Although most ecolabels focus on environmental criteria, some have started to include certain social criteria, such as whether labor rights have been upheld during the product's manufacturing process.

What type of ecolabels exist?

The International Standards Organization (ISO) currently classifies labels into three types:

How can you apply ecolabels throughout SPP implementation

Ecolabels can be applied at different stages, and in different ways, throughout SPP implementation, including:

Finally, Type III EPDs can be very useful to compare amongst different products, and gather relevant environmental data, such as CO2 emissions. However, these are not as common as other labels, such as Type I and Type-I ecolabels.

How can you find relevant ecolabels?

As explained in this section, Type I ecolabels are often the most commonly used labels in public procurement. To get a better understanding of the availability of Type I ecolabels, the Global Ecolabel Network offers a directory of the main ecolabels according to product and services categories. For more guidance on relevant ecolabels in specific procurement categories see sections on ICT and construction.