EU Ecolabel for Retailers: A Guide to Sustainable Selling

The EU Ecolabel offers a valuable opportunity for retailers and marketplaces to align with eco-conscious consumer demands by featuring verified sustainable products. Recognized for its reliability and scientific credibility, the label supports transparency regarding environmental performance, making it a trusted brand that can differentiate retail offerings.

Benefits for Retailers

• Distinctive Market Position: Retailers gain a competitive edge by highlighting sustainable goods.
• Expanded Product Variety: With an increasing range of certified items, eco-friendly shelves are easier to stock.
• Branding Opportunities: Many retailers are seeking EU Ecolabel certification for private-label goods, creating dedicated "green" store sections and promotions.
• Supplier Engagement: Encouraging suppliers to adopt EU Ecolabel certification can foster collaborative marketing campaigns tied to wider EU and national sustainability efforts.

Enhancing Online Visibility

Retailers and marketplaces are encouraged to:

• Integrate Ecolabel Tags/Filters: Facilitate consumer search for EU Ecolabel goods or accommodations by matching product data with the official EU Ecolabel catalog.
• Use Official Tools: Download the EU Ecolabel CSV file from the EU Open Data Portal or connect via APIs (for products or tourist services) to maintain updated and discoverable listings.

This digital approach supports a seamless consumer experience and strengthens the visibility of sustainable options online.

Selling and Marketing EU Ecolabel Products

• Global Sales Scope: Products bearing the EU Ecolabel can be sold worldwide, with a focus on the European Economic Area (EEA).
• Marketing Support: The European Commission provides promotional materials and advises on registering products in the EU Ecolabel Product Catalogue (ECAT) or Tourist Accommodation Catalogue to reach customers effectively.
• Retailer Application: Retailers can apply for certification for their own branded products and obtain their own profile in the ECAT, increasing their sustainability credentials.
• Supplier Influence: Retailers can request suppliers to obtain the EU Ecolabel, helping broaden the selection of eco-friendly products for consumers.

Additional Resources and Support

Retailers can engage with EUROCOMMERCE, the official representative body at the European Union Ecolabelling Board (EUEB), or contact the EU Ecolabel Helpdesk and Competent Bodies for guidance and partnership opportunities.

Accessing EU Ecolabel Products and Services

• EU Ecolabel Product Catalogue (ECAT): Explore certified goods filtered by category, license, or company.
• Tourist Accommodation Catalogue: Locate eco-certified accommodations for sustainable travel.
• Branding Guidelines: Businesses can learn how to effectively communicate their EU Ecolabel status to consumers.

For retailers aiming to improve sustainability credentials and meet the growing consumer demand for verified green products, adopting and promoting the EU Ecolabel represents a strategic advantage. Leveraging official resources and collaboration channels helps ensure visibility, credibility, and commercial success in the expanding market for eco-labelled products.

Sources:

• European Commission Directorate-General for Environment, EU Ecolabel Retailer Support
• EU Open Data Portal
• EUROCOMMERCE and European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) Factsheets

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