The EU's Official Journal published European Commission (EC) Resolution 2015/2056, which extended the application period of environmental labels for certain types of products until the end of 2016. In other words, televisions, shoes and furniture that meet relevant environmental standards can continue to benefit from environmental labels in the next year.
The reason for extending the application period is to allow EU consumers to distinguish environmentally friendly products. Taiwanese companies with related products can participate in the environmental labeling program to promote a positive image of their products to EU consumers.
Environmental labeling is a voluntary scheme that was implemented in 1992 and revised in 2010. The scheme sets out some ground rules for the awarding of environmental seals. Products with less impact on the environment (i.e. environmentally friendly products) can be awarded an environmental label. Regulation 66/2010 sets out the framework for an environmental labeling scheme and does not aim to differentiate between EU-made and foreign-made products. This framework regulation sets environmental standards applicable to different product categories based on the energy usage during the product life cycle. Products of this type must meet specific environmental standards in order to be awarded an environmental label.
European Commission resolutions contain environmental guidelines for each product category. The new Resolution No. 2015/2056 extends the validity period of environmental labels for five product categories until December 31, 2016. The 5 product categories are as follows:
Televisions - Decision 2009/300/EC: The product category "television" includes electronic equipment powered by mains power, the main purpose and function of which is to receive, decode and display television signals. Television sets must comply with the guidelines set out in the annex to the resolution, which aim to reduce energy consumption in order to reduce product damage to the environment or risks associated with energy use (global warming, acidification and non-renewable energy depletion), reduce Environmental damage associated with the use of natural resources and reducing environmental damage associated with the use of hazardous substances. In addition, environmental standards encourage the use of best practices (best environmental practices) and enhance consumers' environmental awareness.
Footwear – Decision 2009/563/EC: The product category "footwear" includes all types of articles designed to protect or cover the feet and which have fixed outsoles in direct contact with the ground. Such footwear should not contain any electrical or electronic components. The environmental guidelines set out in the annex to Decision 2009/563/EC aim to limit the content of toxic residues, limit the release of volatile organic compounds and promote the use of more durable products. Environmentally friendly guidelines help promote footwear labeling and reduce environmental impact.
Wooden furniture – Decision No. 2009/894/EC: The product category "wooden furniture" includes free-standing furniture or built-in furniture, used for storage, hanging, lying, sitting, working and dining, and which can be used indoors with For outdoor use, or for indoor commercial use. One of the conditions is that at least 90% of the product is made of solid wood or wood materials. Environmental guidelines aim to use sustainably manufactured materials, reduce the use of harmful substances and pollutant emissions, and products that have been tested for durability.
Notebook computers – Decision 2011/330/EU: This product category includes devices that have a number of defining characteristics, including being designed to be portable and capable of being used for extended periods of time with or without connection to AC power. Personal tablets that use touch screens and/or other input devices are also considered notebook computers. Digital photo frame not included. Resolution to establish environmental guidelines for energy conservation, energy management, mercury content in fluorescent lamps, hazardous substances and mixtures, and SVHC substances included in the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction Regulation (REACH Regulation) .
Personal Computers – Decision 2011/337/EU: The product category “Personal Computers” includes devices with a number of defined characteristics, including stationary desktop computers only, all-in-one desktop computers and thin-line computers. The screen, keyboard or other input devices included in the sale of computers must also comply with environmental standards. The keyboard and monitor are considered separate items. Environmental protection guidelines aim to reduce energy consumption to reduce product damage to the environment or risks related to energy use (global warming, acidification and non-renewable energy depletion), minimize environmental damage related to the use of natural resources and reduce harmful effects Environmental damage associated with substance use.
For details, please see European Commission Decision 2015/2056. The resolution updates the criteria for awarding environmental labels for each of the above product categories.
Source:HKTDC Economic and Trade Research (2015-12-24)
