EU Ecolabel (EEE)

What is the EU Ecolabel (EEE)?

The EU Ecolabel (EEE) is a voluntary certification awarded to products and services that meet strict environmental criteria established by the European Union. These criteria cover the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, distribution, use, and recycling or disposal. The goal is to reduce environmental impact and promote the circular economy.  

The EEE applies to a wide range of categories, including cleaning products, textiles, appliances, paper products, and tourism accommodation services, among others. To obtain the label, manufacturers and service providers must demonstrate that their products or services meet specific criteria to minimize environmental impact.

How does it relate to sustainability and carbon footprint?‍

One of the main objectives of the EEE is to reduce the carbon footprint of products and services. This is achieved by promoting sustainable practices such as efficient resource use, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and minimizing waste. For example, a product with the EU Ecolabel may have been manufactured using renewable energy or recycled materials, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.

Benefits of the EU Ecolabel

For businesses

• Increased competitiveness: Obtaining the ecolabel can differentiate businesses in a market increasingly aware of environmental impact.
• Access to new markets: Many consumers and businesses prefer certified sustainable products and services.
• Regulatory compliance: The EEE helps companies comply with stricter environmental regulations, such as those outlined in the European Green Deal.
• Cost reduction: Sustainable practices can lead to more efficient resource use, reducing operational costs.

For consumers

• Trust in sustainability: Consumers can be confident that products or services with the EEE meet high environmental standards.
• Lower environmental impact: Choosing certified products helps consumers reduce their own carbon footprint.
• Greater transparency: The label provides clear and verifiable information about a product’s environmental impact.

‍How is the EU Ecolabel awarded?‍

The process for obtaining the EEE involves several steps and an evaluation based on specific criteria. These criteria are established by the European Commission in collaboration with experts, NGOs, industry representatives, and other key stakeholders:

1. Application: The manufacturer or service provider submits an application to the relevant national authority. In Spain, this responsibility falls under the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO).

1. Evaluation: The product or service is assessed to determine whether it meets the established criteria. This includes detailed life cycle analyses, such as energy use, GHG emissions, water consumption, and waste generation.

1. Certification: If all requirements are met, the ecolabel is awarded. The process may involve third-party audits to ensure transparency and objectivity.

The EU Ecolabel in European legal framework‍

The EEE is regulated under Regulation (EC) No. 66/2010 of the European Parliament and the Council, which defines the legal framework for its implementation. This regulation sets objectives, criteria, and procedures to ensure consistency across all EU member states.

Additionally, the EEE aligns with other key EU initiatives, such as the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, which aim to transform the European economy into a more sustainable and carbon-neutral model by 2050.

‍The role of businesses in obtaining the EEE‍

Businesses play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and adopting the EU Ecolabel. To achieve this, they must implement responsible practices throughout their value chain, including measuring and reducing their carbon footprint, using sustainable materials, and optimizing processes.

In this regard, tools like those offered by Manglai can be highly useful. For example, its impact analysis system and interactive dashboards help companies identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions to meet EEE criteria.