
How does it work?
The EU Eco-label scheme includes a
set of environmental and performance criteria for judging products.
These criteria are specific to the type of product according to
which product category it falls into. Only if products meet all
the criteria can they be awarded the EU Eco-label. These environmental
criteria will take into account all aspects of a product's life,
from its production and use to its eventual disposal. There are
also criteria applicable to services such as those related to tourist
accommodation services and camp sites.
Hence MSA will ensure that the product,
packaging or service meets the particular criteria related to the
product or service group. The documents submitted by the applicant
(which may include technical test results) serve to ensure compliance
to the relevant criteria. MSA will then perform expert evaluations
concerning the supplied documentation and decide whether or not
to award the Eco-Label to the organisation. In certain situations
it may also be necessary to organise a site visit by MSA experts
to the organisation.
Once a product has been awarded
the EU Eco-label, the distinctive Flower logo can be displayed on
any part of the product.
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What
Product Groups are available?
There are various different product groups in the EU Eco-Label Certification
Scheme. Food and Medicines are not included in the scheme. The Product
Categories are listed below:

Bedding
Mattresses Gardening
Soil improvers
Electronic
Equipment
Personal computers
Portable computers
Televisions
Footwear
Shoes
Household
Appliances
Dishwashers
Refrigerators
Vacuum cleaners
Washing machines |
Textiles
Clothing, bed linen and indoor textiles Do-it-yourself
Hard floor coverings
Paints and varnishes
Light bulbs
Cleaning
All purpose cleaners
Dishwashing detergents
Hand dishwashing detergents
Laundry detergents
Paper
Tissue paper
Copying and graphic paper
Services
Tourist accommodation Service
Camp sites
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National
Eco-Label Schemes:
There are currently no national Eco-Label
Schemes set up.
For information on the environmental and performance criteria and
other requirements related to a particular product group please
contact us. Every year new sectors are introduced in the scheme.
For more information on impending sectors or national eco-label
schemes please contact us.
How
do I apply?
The EU Eco-label scheme is open to any product
or service, except food, drink, pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
You can apply with MSA by contacting the MSA Eco-Label Contact
Point.
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What
are the benefits?
Recognition:
The Eco-Flower is an environmental mark promoted throughout Europe.
The scheme is backed up the European Commission and all EU member
states. It is a recognition of efforts done by a manufacturer or
a service provider to provide products and services good for the
environment and health.
Credibility:
Products and Services applying the EU Eco-Label scheme must strictly
adhere to specific criteria. Customers of the product and service
with the Eco-Flower can rest assured of its eco-friendliness. The
EU Eco-Label is NOT just another vague environmental claim.
Marketing:
The EU Eco-Label and the Eco-Flower is a trademark
officially recognised throughout Europe. The use of the Eco-Label
on your advertising brochures, leaflets, products etc. can be used
to distinguish your organisation on the market both at a local and
European level.
Meet
Consumer Expectations: Consumers are beginning to
recognise that they can make a positive difference and actively
help to protect the environment by buying products and using services
that inflict less damage upon it. Hence with greater awareness on
the need to conserve the environment both in Malta and worldwide,
the EU Eco-Label on your product or service has the potential to
make an impact and influence the behaviour of thousands of consumers
in Malta and millions of consumers across Europe.
Reduce
Costs: Though most environmental measures require
time and effort, in the longer term they offer added value. For
example, reducing consumption of natural resources such as energy
and water not only helps protect the environment but reduces your
organisation’s costs.
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