Questions & answers
Sustainable shopping has never been easier! The EU Ecolabel identifies products that are particularly environmentally friendly and meet high quality standards. In our FAQ, you’ll learn how to recognise the European Ecolabel, what benefits products carrying the EU Ecolabel offer and why it’s worth looking for it specifically. This helps you make more informed purchasing decisions – and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment with every purchase.
Products carrying the EU Ecolabel are often just as affordable or even cheaper than comparable conventional products, as environmentally friendly production and resource efficiency can lead to long-term cost savings. However, some product groups, such as textiles and footwear, may not always be able to match the prices of conventional products.
Yes. For example, hotels and campsites that demonstrably meet environmentally friendly standards can be certified with the EU Ecolabel.
The label appears as a blue flower symbol with stars on the packaging or in the product description. In some cases, it is also printed in black and white directly on the product.
Yes. The label is recognised in all 27 EU Member States as well as in Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
The EU Ecolabel identifies products that are particularly environmentally friendly and have a lower negative impact on nature, climate and the environment compared to alternative products.
In the “Product worlds” section, you will find a comprehensive overview of all products and services for which the EU Ecolabel has been officially awarded by the German awarding body RAL gGmbH and for which the use of the EU Ecolabel logo is permitted.
The assessment covers energy and resource consumption, waste, emissions, the use of chemicals and impacts on biodiversity, as well as social and ethical criteria.
There are currently 25 different product groups. Certified products include, for example, laundry detergents and cleaning products, textiles, paper products, paints and varnishes, as well as environmentally friendly services such as hotels and campsites.
In Germany, RAL gGmbH reviews products and awards the EU Ecolabel certificate.
Products with the EU Ecolabel are more sustainable, conserve resources, avoid hazardous chemicals and contribute to a cleaner environment.