EU Ecolabel Definition
The EU Ecolabel (European Union Ecolabel) is the EU's official, voluntary label for products and services that meet set environmental standards across their whole life cycle, from raw materials to disposal. It was created in 1992, is recognised by its flower logo, and can be used throughout the European Economic Area.
What products can carry it?
Everyday consumer and business products are covered, such as cleaning products, paints, paper, textiles, furniture, mattresses, and electronics, as well as services like tourist accommodation. Food and medicines are excluded. Each product group has its own criteria, covering areas such as energy and water use, hazardous substances, durability, and recyclability.
How does a product get the label?
A company applies to the national body that runs the EU Ecolabel in its country. That body checks test results and documentation against the criteria before allowing the logo to be used. Because the label is independently verified, it differs from environmental claims that companies make about themselves.
Why does it matter for businesses?
EU rules against greenwashing (the EmpCo Directive) only allow broad claims such as "eco-friendly" when a company can show excellent environmental performance, and the EU Ecolabel is one recognised way to do that. It also complements mandatory product rules: the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) sets minimum standards for all products in a group, while the Ecolabel identifies the best performers. Read more in our guide to ESPR compliance.
