Ecolabel is a quality brand that is reliable and verified by a third party. The new criteria promote the reduction of the environmental impact of products on water, soil, and biodiversity, contributing to a clean and circular economy and a toxic-free environment. Independent evaluations verify that products that are subject to the certification do not include dangerous substances for human health or toxic to aquatic life.
The European Commission, adopted last 22 October, the new EU Ecolabel criteria, extending the label to cosmetics and pet-care products.
The revised requirements on hazardous substances are particularly ambitious as they set a total ban on substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction, on substances of very high concern, nanomaterials, those identified or suspected of having endocrine disrupting properties, phthalates, and perfluorinated and polyfluorinated substances, as well as on microplastics. The EU Ecolabel promotes the use of more sustainable and renewable ingredients, guarantees that packaging is minimized and/or easy-to-recycle, and those cosmetics perform as claimed.
The Ecolabel previously covered only a limited range of rinse-off cosmetics, such as body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. The updated criteria of the 2014 Commission Decision (2014/893/EU) now include leave-on cosmetics such as creams, oils, skin-care lotions, deodorants and antiperspirants, sunscreens, as well as hair styling and make-up products.
For pet-car products, the Ecolabel will now apply on rinse-off products, such as soap and shower preparations. This gives pet owners the ability to choose products meeting the highest environmental standards.