Wondering how eco-labelled brands actually do to certify their products? How can you be sure they really deserve to use an ecolabel? And what if they decide to change their procedures and no longer meet the label’s requirements? Let us answer all your questions here.
What eco-labelled brands have to do to have certified products
Completing a certification process is not something that should be taken lightly. Using an ecolabel is a serious advantage for both companies and consumers. On the one hand, a brand can claim their true commitment to the environment. On the other hand, you can discover a brand’s values and easily make more responsible choices for the planet.
In order to get certified products and use the Ecogarantie label, a company has to contact an independent control body. They are the ones taking care of the certification procedure. Consequently, it allows us to remain neutral. First, it is important to know the type of company which is applying. Are they producing their own products? Are they only selling them? Actually, the aim is to learn more about the company’s activities. Second, the appointed control body audits it. They control everything: the production processes, the prices, the ingredients… So nothing is left to chance.
Once the certifying body finishes to audit the candidate, they write a report. If it’s positive, they deliver a certificate and inform us. It’s then time to sign the contracts. Throughout the whole certification process, we communicate regularly with control bodies to stay up-to-date. That’s how eco-labelled brands start to use the Ecogarantie label on their products!
How we make sure eco-labelled brands can remain certified
We know what you’re thinking. It’s easy to respect the Ecogarantie standards’ for the first audit. But perhaps some brands change their ingredients after getting certified products. Or maybe they use production methods that are less eco-friendly. Well, let us tell you: you needn’t worry about this. Because control bodies make sure our eco-labelled brands always meet their commitment. Every year, they check everything again and allow brands to use the Ecogarantie label for one additional year.
In the event of infringement, control bodies can impose a sanction for non-compliance on eco-labelled products. According to the type of breach, companies are given a time limit to make adjustment. If they do not want to collaborate, they can no longer use the ecolabel. It’s as simple as that. And it is effective, don’t you think?
