Flower power gives boost to EU’s eco-labels

By Véronique Vallières

Date: 14/10/04

THE European Union will next Monday (18 October) launch its first Flower Week, a campaign to promote the European eco-label.

The flower scheme is part of a market-based environmental policy, whose aim is to encourage sustainable production and consumption. The idea is to encourage businesses to market "greener" products and give the environmentally-conscious consumer the choice to purchase products that are kinder to the environment.

"So far, nine countries are participating in this scheme on a voluntary basis," said Commission environment spokeswoman Ewa Hedlund.

Between 18-24 October, several activities, exhibitions and competitions will take place in schools and stores in participating countries. The aim is to increase consumer knowledge of environmentally-friendly products, while motivating manufacturers to apply for the eco-label.

Goods bearing the logo are guaranteed to have been produced in compliance with established ecological criteria.

The eco-label licence has so far been awarded to more than 150 European companies. The number of eco-labelled products is expected to grow significantly in the next few years.

Preview of the first EU Flower Week, a campaign to promote the European eco-label, taking place from 18 to 24 October 2004.