What are the eco-responsible labels?

What are the most commonly used labels?

Some of the different labels used around the world are probably familiar to you. Others, however, are more discreet. Here is an overview of the different labels used by companies opting for an eco-responsible approach.

Organic farming

Organic farming products are very easy to identify these days. This label certifies product quality and a production method that respects the environment, biodiversity and animal welfare.

NF Environment

Based on French, European and international standards, this label was created in 1991. It certifies products that have a reduced impact on the environment. The main criteria for obtaining this label are ecological characteristics and suitability for use.

The label can be found on cleaning products, furniture, bin bags, paints and glues.

Eco Label

You may already have spotted this label, which distinguishes products and services that respect the environment. Certified products have a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle.

EnergyStar

Created in 1992, this label promotes energy savings and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The label is used on computers, printers and lighting.

Forest Stewardship Council

Created by an NGO founded in 1993, this label encourages the exploitation of the world's forest resources with respect for the planet and social as well as economic criteria. FSC-labelled forests are more respectful of today's world, and are committed to sustainable and responsible forestry.

PEFC

This label is actually a forest management certification mark, designed to contribute to the sustainable management of forests. The logo certifies that the product is made from at least 70% wood from responsible forests.

Möbius ring

Well-known in the world of labels, the Möbius ring is generally affixed to products made from recycled or recyclable materials.

Eco-Emballage

This green dot informs consumers that the manufacturer selling the product contributes to the disposal of packaging. It also ensures that household packaging is taken back.

Why buy a labelled product?

Opting for a product with a label simply means you can be sure of buying something that respects the environment and is in line with your values. There are almost 400 labels certifying a commitment to the environment, but only 100 are considered 100% reliable.

To identify a reliable environmental label, look at :

• Whether the label has been created by an independent third party and not by the brand in question;
• Whether the brand has to comply with a set of specifications with protection criteria: real action is needed for a label to be reliable;
• Does the label cover the entire life of the product? Limiting the packaging of a product is sometimes not enough if the product has a huge impact on the environment.

With all these tips, you can quickly identify a reliable label. In fact, switching to more eco-responsible products will be easier in the future. These labels have been created to simplify your life and enable you to make more reasoned and ethical purchases.