Sustainability Glossary

Agenda 21 is an action plan for sustainable development adopted at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. It includes comprehensive measures to promote environmental protection, social equity, and economic sustainability.

By raising awareness and promoting innovative solutions, Agenda 21 and the EU Ecolabel work together to create a sustainable and livable future for us all.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on our planet. From magnificent forests to the tiny organisms that enrich our soil—every species plays a unique role in our ecosystem. Biodiversity is essential, as it supports the balance of nature, secures our food supply, and provides valuable medical resources.

The EU Ecolabel promotes products and services that contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. By adopting environmentally friendly and sustainable practices, companies help protect the habitats of plants and animals and conserve their diversity.

Biodiversity conservation refers to all measures taken to protect endangered animal and plant species and ensure their survival. Preserving biodiversity is crucial, as each species plays a unique role in our ecosystem. By protecting endangered species, we help maintain natural habitats and preserve the balance of nature.

Our ecolabel serves as a guide for sustainable consumption choices and contributes to the protection of biodiversity. Products and services bearing the EU Ecolabel meet strict environmental standards and help reduce the ecological footprint.

Biodiversity loss refers to the decline in the variety of species, habitats, and genetic resources. It is caused by factors such as ecosystem destruction, climate change, pollution, and intensive agriculture, and it threatens the stability of natural systems. Healthy ecosystems perform essential functions such as regulating the water cycle, pollinating plants, and preventing soil erosion—so their loss has direct consequences for both the environment and society.

The EU Ecolabel helps counteract biodiversity loss by ensuring that certified products meet strict requirements regarding pollutant limits, resource efficiency, and environmentally friendly production methods. By choosing such products, consumers support production practices that place less strain on natural habitats and help preserve biodiversity.

Your “Blue Planet”—that is Earth, your unique habitat, covered by more than 70% water. Unfortunately, it is increasingly under pressure: climate change, pollution, and resource scarcity are taking a heavy toll.

This is where the EU Ecolabel comes in. It stands for positive change by recognizing sustainable products and services that protect the environment while meeting high quality standards.