ECO-LABELING:
14 Countries, Regions to Collaborate on International Standards
AUGUST 22, 1996
International Body Formed
Systems for affixing eco-labels to environmentally friendly products are gaining popularity worldwide. However, international variations in the criteria used for authorizing such labels could become a source of impediments to trade. This has led to the establishment of an executive body of 14 countries and regions, including Japan, to collaborate in creating uniform international standards.
In Japan, where the labels are known as "eco-marks," eco-labeling was introduced in 1989. The system is authorized by the Japan Environment Association, an auxiliary organ of the Environment Agency. As of the end of May this year, 2,100 products in 71 categories had been endorsed, including toilet paper made from 100% recycled paper and solar water heaters.
Eco-labeling systems have now been adopted in 25 countries and regions. In 1994, 14 of these from Europe and Asia, including Japan, formed the Global Eco-labeling Network (GEN). The network is aiming to create uniform international standards for endorsement and negotiate the coexistence of an eco-labeling system with trade. Secretariats are located in Stockholm and Tokyo. The Tokyo office is administered by the Japan Environment Association.
Japan to Host 1997 General Meeting
Preliminary steps to the creation of uniform international criteria were set at the second GEN general meeting in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in June this year. Several countries will reciprocally endorse eco-labeling of a number of items on a trial basis. In addition, suggestions for uniform standards for endorsement, such as batteries that do not contain mercury, will be proposed for this purpose. The meeting also confirmed that GEN will provide know-how to developing countries introducing eco-labels. The next general meeting is scheduled for Japan in 1997.
Japan intends to play an active role in developing uniform international standards. In March this year the Japan Environment Association decided to introduce the principle of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for future approval of eco-marks. The LCA considers effects on the environment from the point of view of the life of a product. Products are assessed on such aspects as impact on global warming and the production of harmful waste substances at each stage, from procurement of raw materials through manufacturing, distribution, use, disposal, and recycling. Now in general worldwide use, there is a strong possibility of incorporating LCA in uniform international standards in the future.