Cyprus Ranks Lowest in EU for Sustainable Shopping Options, BEUC Study Finds

A recent study by the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) reveals that Cyprus offers the fewest sustainable shopping options among European Union countries, with eco-labelled products constituting only 2% of the market. This positions Cyprus, alongside Greece, at the bottom of the EU ranking for availability of environmentally friendly goods.

Key Findings

• Market Share of Eco-Labelled Products: Only 2% of products in major Cypriot supermarkets—Alpha Mega, Metro, and Sklavenitis—carry the EU Ecolabel or equivalent sustainability certifications.
• Comparison with Other EU Countries: Denmark and Norway lead sustainability availability, with 80% and 61% of products respectively featuring eco-labels.
• Product Categories Surveyed: The study analyzed 244 products including all-purpose cleaners, body lotions, nappies, and toilet paper; however, eco-labels appeared almost exclusively on cleaning products in only two supermarket chains.
• Price Advantage: Eco-labelled cleaning products in Cyprus were, on average, 10% cheaper than their non-certified counterparts, contradicting popular assumptions that sustainable products are more expensive.

About the EU Ecolabel

Established in 1992, the EU Ecolabel is a voluntary certification guaranteeing that non-food products and services meet strict environmental and health standards through their entire lifecycle—from design and manufacturing to use and recycling. It is applied across diverse sectors, including paper goods, textiles, paints, and hospitality.

Challenges and Future Outlook

BEUC highlighted consumer difficulties stemming from widespread misleading green advertising that undermines trust in sustainability claims. The organisation underscores the critical role retailers play in making genuinely sustainable products widely available.

Looking ahead, upcoming EU legislation aims to combat greenwashing by banning vague environmental claims such as “eco” or “green” unless supported by official certifications like the EU Ecolabel. These measures seek to empower consumers and facilitate a credible green transition across member states.

Conclusion

The disparity in sustainable product availability across the EU underscores a pressing need for increased efforts in Cyprus to expand and promote eco-labelled goods. Given the cost-effectiveness of certified products and growing consumer interest, enhanced retailer commitment and regulatory enforcement could foster a more sustainable shopping environment on the island.

Sources:

• European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) Study, October 2024
• EU Ecolabel Official Documentation
• Cyprus Mail, “Cyprus offers the fewest sustainable shopping options among EU countries,” 10 October 2024

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