Image representing ecolabels.

What is an ecolabel?

Each label has its own requirements. Certain labels focus primarily on environmental aspects, while others also take into account quality, traceability and social responsibility. A label may cover the entire product, only the raw materials or just part of the product. Below is a list of the most common labelling schemes for furniture, textiles and wood.

A number of ecolabels for furniture and furnishings are Type 1 labels. This indicates that labelled products meet environmental requirements set out by an independent third party. Such requirements are continuously being tightened and developed from a life cycle perspective.

The Nordic Swan is a Type 1 ecolabel that sets the toughest of demands from an environmental perspective. It also includes quality and sustainability requirements. The label employs a holistic approach and takes into account the entire product life cycle – from raw materials, production and use to re-use, recycling and waste management.

Möbelfakta is a Type 1 ecolabel with requirements covering both quality and the environment. In addition, Möbelfakta also sets standards for social and ethical aspects, including decent working conditions for employees of furniture producers throughout the supply chain.

OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 is an international certification scheme for textiles, guaranteeing that products are free from harmful chemicals and other substances harmful to health. By choosing OEKO-TEX consumers can feel confident that the textiles are safe to use in schools and preschools.

The EU Ecolabel is a Type 1 ecolabel that is a Europe-wide equivalent to the Nordic Swan. Products are assessed based on a life cycle perspective, taking into account the complete environmental impact of the product. The EU Ecolabel can be used for furniture, but is most commonly seen on textiles in the Nordic region.

The Blue Angel is a Type 1 ecolabel that is the German equivalent to the Nordic Swan. This label is less common in the Nordic region.

FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council and is an international certification system for sustainable forestry. The system promotes environmentally, socially and economically sustainable use of the world’s forests. By choosing FSC-labelled products consumers can be sure that the timber comes from forests that are being managed responsibly.

Label or not?

Even if furniture does not have a label, it can still fulfil specific requirements with regard to quality, the environment and social responsibility. Products can be verified by means of testing and can meet demanding EN standards without necessarily bearing a particular environmental or quality label.

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Please contact us if you would like to find out more about labelling, quality and sustainable furnishings for public environments.

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