Michael Creed
Question:19 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for the Environment the current position regarding the introduction of an EC Eco Labelling scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EC ECO Labelling Scheme.
On 23 March 1992, the EC Environment Council adopted a Regulation for a Community wide Eco-labelling scheme. The intention of the scheme is that an eco-label would be available for products which meet strict environmental criteria during their entire life-cycle.
The EC Commission have set up ad hoc committees to consider criteria for product groups and to define what administrative arrangements are required at member state and Commission levels for the launch of the scheme. To date, criteria have been agreed for two product groups, dishwashers and washing machines, and it is expected that these will soon be adopted by the Commission. I understand that the Commission intend to hold a press conference on 1 July to bring the scheme to the attention of industrialists and retailers. A broadly based launch to include consumer, environmentalists, industrialists and retailers is also being planned for the end of the year. It is expected by then to have available a wider range of product groups with agreed eco-labelling criteria.
I fully support the EC eco-labelling scheme and intend shortly to designate the competent body to administer the scheme in Ireland.