About the EU Ecolabel
The EU Ecolabel is the official environmental label of the European Union. It was introduced by the European Commission in 1992. While it was initially intended only for products, services have also been eligible for EU Ecolabel certification since the year 2000.
This sustainable ecolabel is awarded to products and services that have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to similar alternatives. Its aim is to help consumers and procurers identify environmentally friendly and healthier options.
Which products and services carry the EU Ecolabel?
The EU Ecolabel covers a wide range of certified products and services, including:
- Laundry detergents and cleaning products
- Textiles and footwear
- Paper and paper products
- Paints and varnishes
- Tourist accommodation establishments and campsites
Food and beverages, medicinal products and medical devices are currently excluded from EU Ecolabel certification.
Recognition of the EU Ecolabel in Europe
The EU Ecolabel is recognised in all 27 EU Member States as well as in Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It is a valuable instrument for companies as well as for consumers and procurers who are committed to sustainability and environmental protection.
Responsible bodies in Germany
The European Union Ecolabelling Board (EUEB) is the highest governing body of the EU Ecolabel. It is composed of representatives from the individual Member States as well as members from industry, environmental and consumer organisations, trade unions, small and medium-sized enterprises, and the retail sector.
In Germany, the German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt (UBA)) and RAL gGmbH are designated as the competent bodies for the EU Ecolabel. The UBA is responsible for developing the award criteria, while RAL gGmbH reviews applications and concludes contracts for the use of the EU Ecolabel.
The European Ecolabel reaches a record milestone
More than 100,000 certifications across Europe! In Germany alone, over 10,000 products are certified with the EU Ecolabel. (Status: September 2025.) The highest number of licences has been awarded to companies in Spain, Italy and France.
New: Statistics September 2025
You can find out how many products and services are certified across the EU as a whole here.
Further information on the EU Ecolabel
Visit the official website www.ecolabel.eu for detailed information on the EU Ecolabel, current statistics and answers to frequently asked questions. Further details are also available on the website of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.