Circular economy: Commission expands Ecolabel criteria to computers, furniture and footwear
The Commission has adopted a new set of ecological criteria under the EU Ecolabel scheme for computers (personal, notebook and tablet computers), furniture and footwear. Manufacturers who wish to benefit from the EU Ecolabel have to comply with strict requirements that focus on the environmental performance of the product, but also cover product safety and social aspects. "The EU Ecolabel promotes Europe's transition to a circular economy,
supporting both sustainable production and consumption. Thanks to
transparent ecological criteria, consumers can make conscious choices,
without compromising on the quality of the products. Similarly, the
Ecolabel rewards those manufacturers who choose to design products that
are durable and repairable, promoting innovation and saving resources", said Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella.
To be eligible for the EU Ecolabel, computer manufacturers will need to
consider energy efficiency and device upgradability during the design
and manufacturing process, along with taking into account how easy it is
to dismantle, recover and recycle resources from the devices. In the
case of furniture, the new criteria require manufacturers to conduct a
more comprehensive life cycle assessment, while paying special attention
to the hazardous compounds and residues, which could contribute to
indoor air pollution. Following the provisions of recognised
international labour standards, special attention was given to improving
Corporate Social Responsibility with regard to labour conditions which
will apply to the final footwear assembly site. The criteria revision is
valid for six years following its date of adoption. More information is
available on DG ENV website. (For more information: Enrico Brivio – Tel.: +32 229 56172; Iris Petsa – Tel.: +32 229 93321)
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