Why do we need an EU Eco-label ?

How do I recognise an EU Eco-label product ?

What kind of products have been awarded the Flower ?

How does a product receive the EU Eco-label ?

Are greener products more expensive?

Are greener products as good as their
non-ecological equivalents ?

Why do we need an EU Eco-label?

Today we face all sorts of environmental problems, from global warming, destruction of the ozone layer and polluted rivers, to loss of biodiversity and piles of waste.
Fortunately, however, consumers are beginning to recognise that they can make a positive difference and actively help to protect the environment by buying products that inflict less damage upon it.
The EU Eco-label scheme is a simple way of helping you to make informed choices about the products that you buy. The Flower logo is recognised all over Europe and covers a wide range of product groups, making it easier to recognise quality products that are less harmful to the environment.

How do I recognise an EU Eco-label product?

Once a product has been awarded the EU Eco-label, the distinctive Flower logo can be displayed on any part of the product. You will find it on the packaging or on the product label.

What kind of products have been awarded the Flower?

The EU Eco-label scheme is open to any product or service, except food, drink, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. There are currently twenty-three product categories which can receive this award, ranging from tourist accommodation service, home appliances, cleaning materials, and mattresses to office supplies, gardening and Do It Yourself products.

Click here to find out more about these product groups.

How does a product receive the EU Eco-label?

While no human activity is completely 'environmentally friendly', there are always opportunities to reduce the impact that certain products have upon the environment.
The EU Eco-label scheme has therefore drawn up a set of environmental and performance criteria for judging products. Only if products meet all the criteria can they be awarded the EU Eco-label. These environmental criteria will take into account all aspects of a product's life, from its production and use to its eventual disposal (cradle-to-grave approach).

Are "flowered" products more expensive?

No, not necessarily. Price comparability will differ from product to product.
Anyway, a product with the "Flower" adds value, since it has a reduced impact on the environment, and meets strict performance standards.

Are "flowered" products as good as their non-ecological equivalents?

The EU Eco-label is also only awarded to products that can be guaranteed to be at least as efficient as conventional products.