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At a time when consumers are increasingly seeking genuine sustainability, the EU Ecolabel serves as a benchmark for environmental performance.

Stewart Hickey Head of Business Excellence
  • The European Union Ecolabel is a licence that guarantees environmental excellence for products and services.
  • Over 95,000 products and services have been awarded the EU Ecolabel to date
  • NSAI is the only designated body in Ireland that can award the EU Ecolabel licence.
  • It offers a scientifically based verification that helps businesses avoid misleading claims, thereby fostering consumer trust

10th October 2024, Dublin, Ireland As consumers become more environmentally conscious, World Ecolabel Day on October 10th highlights the critical role of ecolabels, such as the European Union Ecolabel, in fostering sustainable business practices and enhancing brand reputation.

The EU Ecolabel is a licence which can be granted to companies and organisations in Ireland through the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) It guarantees environmental excellence for products and services and can support organisations seeking to enhance their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. This label not only underscores the importance of sustainability in consumer choices but also encourages businesses to demonstrate their commitment to reducing their environmental impact.

Stewart Hickey, Head of Business Excellence at NSAI speaking about the EU Ecolabel said:

"At a time when consumers are increasingly seeking genuine sustainability, the EU Ecolabel serves as a benchmark for environmental performance. It offers scientifically based verification that helps businesses avoid misleading claims, thereby fostering consumer trust. The growing consumer awareness around sustainability, paired with increasing EU regulations against greenwashing, adds significant value to having the EU Ecolabel on products or services.”

As the only competent body in Ireland designated to award the EU Ecolabel, the NSAI is urging all businesses to explore the potential of this licence.

Pictured: Stewart Hickey of NSAI

One exemplary case is Derrycourt Cleaning Specialists, the first company in Ireland to secure the EU Ecolabel for indoor cleaning services. Gerard McCarthy, Operations Manager at Derrycourt, emphasises the importance of this licence in their journey towards becoming carbon neutral by 2040:

 "The EU Ecolabel has provided us with independent verification of our commitment to sustainability. Innovation and progress drive our company to continuously improve the health of people, places and the planet by providing sustainable customer-orientated cleaning solutions and the EU Ecolabel supported our goals. It has transformed our operations and bolstered our ESG strategy, creating a win-win for our business and clients."

Businesses that achieve this licence not only enhance their brand reputation and offering but also gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. EU Ecolabelled products and services can improve consumer trust, deliver potential cost savings, and differentiation in the market.

Pictured: Avril McCarthy and Gerard McCarthy of Derrycourt Cleaning Services

World Ecolabel Day on October 10th serves as a reminder of the importance of eco-friendly practices and the vital role that ecolabels, like the EU Ecolabel, play in supporting a sustainable future. More information about the EU Ecolabel and how to apply is available at NSAI.ie/EUecolabel.

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