EU Ecolabel
The EU Ecolabel helps consumers, retailers and businesses make sustainable choices. Over 100,000 products (goods and services) across the EU already bear the EU Ecolabel, meaning that they comply with rigorous ecological criteria and have a reduced environmental impact.
EU Ecolabel criteria are defined for a wide range of product groups. Check if your good or service is eligible .
Benefits
The EU Ecolabel offers clear benefits to businesses:
- Earn trust: The EU Ecolabel is a reliable, third-party verified certification.
- Show commitment: Prove your product meets strict environmental standards.
- Business opportunities & cost savings: Recognised in all EU countries, the EU Ecolabel creates opportunities while promoting resource efficiency.
- Strengthen your reputation: Showcase your dedication to sustainability.
Sample story
Sustainability in action: a small business and the EU Ecolabel
Carlos owns a small soap business in Spain and wants to showcase his eco-friendly practices. He discovers the EU Ecolabel and decides to apply. First, he checks if his soaps meet the criteria and contacts his national EU Ecolabel competent body to begin the application process.
He provides detailed information about his products and gets them tested by a certified lab to prove compliance with the EU Ecolabel's strict standards. After his application is reviewed and approved, Carlos signs a licensing agreement. With the EU Ecolabel on his packaging, he notices a boost in customer trust and sales, reinforcing his brand's reputation for sustainability.
How to apply?
There is a 7-step application process. The label is awarded by the relevant national organisation (competent body) that checks your application.
Fees
Fees vary depending on the EU country where the application is submitted and on your business size. You must check the specific fees that apply in your country, however, this what you can generally expect:
A one-off application fee
The competent body will charge a fee for processing the application:
- €200 - €350 for micro-enterprises
- €200 - €600 for SMEs and companies from developing countries
- €200 - €2,000 for all other companies.
Discounts:
- 30% reduction for companies registered under EMAS
- 15% reduction for companies certified under ISO 14001
EMAS and ISO discounts are not cumulative—only the higher discount applies
Annual fee
The competent body may require you to pay an annual fee for the Ecolabel. This can be a flat fee, or a fee based on the product’s annual sales within the EU.
If an annual fee is required and you are an SME, micro-enterprise or a company from a developing country, you are eligible for a 25% reduction.
Inspection fees
You may also need to pay inspection fees which cover laboratory testing, audits, or other checks performed by third parties to ensure compliance with the ecolabel criteria. You must pay these fees directly to the service providers conducting the inspections. The specific amount depends on the product category and the complexity of the testing required.
Warning
Always check the specific fees that apply in your country and contact your national EU Ecolabel competent body for additional information and support.
Get access to national information below.