The European Commission updates the EU’s Ecolabelling Criteria
On 14 September 2023, the European Commission adopted a Decision (2023/6024) which updates the EU’s Ecolabelling Criteria for absorbent hygiene products and menstrual cups. This Decision has been effective since 21 September 2023. It repeals Decision 2014/763 as it introduces new criteria for absorbent hygiene products and reusable menstrual cups, aligning with market trends and sustainability needs. Products that have been marketed on the basis of the EU Ecolabel Criteria and related assessment and verification requirements in accordance with Decision 2014/763/EU will be able to be marketed until 31 December 2023.
This new decision is based on Article 8(2) of EU Regulation 66/2010 of the European Parliament
and the European Council on the EU Ecolabel, requiring specific EU Ecolabel criteria for different product
groups.
The EU Ecolabel was first established in 1992. It is an official voluntary labelling scheme intended to promote the production of sustainable commodities. It is an incentive for companies to reduce the carbon footprint of their products over their life cycle. In order to obtain this EU Ecolabel, manufacturers need to meet a set of conditions, ensuring that their products adhere to the EU’s environmental standards. The European Commission’s update sets 12 conditions, which are as follows:
- Fluff Pulp:
The pulp used in products needs to be sourced using environmentally-friendly forestry practices, with restrictions on bleaching and pollution levels. Manufacturers will need to source pulp from certified sustainable forests, demonstrating a commitment to responsible sourcing. Moreover, they should invest in alternative bleaching processes and implement measures to control pollution, especially when using specific types of pulp.
- Artificial Cellulose Fibres
Suppliers will need to adhere to environmentally-friendly practices for raw materials, emphasising sustainable sourcing and limiting pollution during production. Manufacturers should ensure their suppliers meet these standards and prioritise materials from mills that recover energy from waste.
- Cotton & Other Natural Cellulose Products
The requirements include organic farming standards, traceability, and environmentally-friendly bleaching methods. Manufacturers should source natural fibres responsibly, implement organic farming practices, and adhere to specific bleaching standards. Notably, traceability is crucial to prove the origins of these materials.
- Production of Synthetic Polymers
Manufacturers will need to implement water-saving systems, efficient waste management, and energy efficiency measures. Manufacturers should invest in water-saving technologies, efficient waste handling, and energy management systems. Here, companies must provide evidence of compliance, including supplier statements and detailed reports.
- Biobased Plastic Materials
Products with over 1% biodegradable plastic materials must prove their environmental benefits and source materials responsibly. Manufacturers will need to choose biodegradable materials but must provide evidence of their superiority over regular plastics. Importantly, certificates from independent third-party organisations are required.
- Material Efficiency in the Manufacturing of the Final Product
Companies will need to put limits on waste disposal based on product weight. Manufacturers should minimise waste and provide evidence of compliance through waste data reporting.
- Excluded and Restricted Substances
New conditions include the prohibition of specific hazardous substances. Manufacturers will need to ensure their products are free from restricted substances and provide supporting evidence, including safety data sheets and test results.
- Packaging
New conditions set out specific requirements for packaging materials, recycled content, and recyclability. Manufacturers will need to use specified packaging materials, incorporate recycled content, and ensure recyclability. Again, compliance evidence is required.
- Guidance on Use and Disposal
Packaging must include usage and disposal instructions. Manufacturers will need to provide clear instructions for product usage and responsible disposal.
- Fitness for Use & Quality of the Product
Products must undergo performance testing for product quality and adherence to set standards. Manufacturers will need to subject their products to rigorous quality testing, provide test reports, and ensure conformity with established standards.
- Corporate Social Responsibility with regard to Labour Aspects
Companies will need to adhere to international labour rules and principles. Manufacturers will need to uphold labour rights, undergo external audits, and publicly share their results.
- Information Appearing on the EU Ecolabel
Manufacturers will need to adhere to new logo guidelines, which include required statements on the packaging and the need to provide proof of compliance.
