What is BS EN ISO 14020:2012?

BS EN ISO 14020:2012, an international standard for environmental labelling, provides guidelines for the development and use of labels that communicate information about the environmental aspects of products or services. This article aims to provide an easy-to-understand explanation of this technical standard.

The Purpose of BS EN ISO 14020:2012

The main purpose of BS EN ISO 14020:2012 is to establish a framework for environmental labelling programs and to promote consistency and transparency in their application. It helps consumers make informed decisions by providing them with reliable information about the environmental impact of products or services.

Environmental labels serve as a means of communication between producers, retailers, and consumers. They are designed to convey information about the environmental performance of a product throughout its life cycle: from extraction of raw materials to production, distribution, use, and disposal.

Types of Environmental Labels

BS EN ISO 14020:2012 recognises three types of environmental labels:

1. Type I Labels: These are voluntary, third-party certified labels used to identify environmentally preferable products or services within a specific product category. The certification process involves a comprehensive assessment of the product's entire life cycle and environmental impact.

2. Type II Labels: Also known as self-declared environmental claims, these labels are based on the manufacturer or provider's own assertion, without independent verification. Type II labels provide limited information about a product's environmental impact and should be viewed with some caution.

3. Type III Labels: These labels provide detailed, quantified environmental information about a product or service, using predetermined parameters and indicators. They require compliance with specific reporting formats to facilitate comparison and enable informed decision-making.

Benefits and Considerations

The implementation of BS EN ISO 14020:2012 offers several benefits to different stakeholders:

- For consumers, environmental labels provide a basis for making informed choices. By considering the environmental impact of products, consumers can support sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future.

- Producers and retailers can use environmental labelling as a marketing tool, differentiating their products or services in the market. Compliance with this standard allows them to demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and gain a competitive advantage.

- Government bodies and regulatory agencies can use BS EN ISO 14020:2012 to establish minimum requirements and ensure transparency in environmental claims made by companies.

However, it is essential to note that while BS EN ISO 14020:2012 provides guidelines and principles, it does not specify detailed criteria or indicators for specific product categories. This flexibility ensures that environmental labelling can be tailored to suit different industries and products.

To conclude, BS EN ISO 14020:2012 plays a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness and facilitating informed decision-making. It provides a framework for reliable communication of a product or service's environmental characteristics through different types of environmental labels. By embracing this international standard, stakeholders can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.