Ethical Shopping: 66 certifications you need to know

Written by Pierre Mainguet - Head of Product at Kelkoo Group - 16 Jan 2024 - 7 min read

We've put together this handy guide to give you a clear and simple rundown of the sustainability certifications you'll come across while doing your ethical shopping. It's all about making things a bit more transparent, so you know exactly what each label stands for – from environmental impact to fair trade and beyond.

Think of this page as a small but crucial step in our journey to better shopping choices, where you can easily find what's behind the products you choose. Our goal is to demystify the ethical aspects of your purchases, helping you shop with confidence and better understand the impact of your choices.

Type
Shoppers relevancy
Ethical topics
Products category
Geo scopes
Label
Fairtrade
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Comprehensive certification addressing poverty and exploitation in supply chains
Topics: FairTrade, Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

FairTrade certification is a globally recognized label, overseen by Fairtrade International (FLO), which includes various national Fairtrade organizations. Max Havelaar is one of those national Fair Trade organizations.

This certification primarily focuses on empowering farmers and workers in developing countries by providing them with fair prices, decent working conditions, and a fairer deal overall. FairTrade also promotes sustainable farming practices and better environmental standards in production.

Note: "FairTrade" and "Fair Trade Certified" refer to certifications that, while similar in their goals of promoting ethical trade practices, are managed by different organizations and have distinct standards and focuses. Both certifications aim to improve trading conditions, support sustainable farming, and empower producers in developing countries. However, the differences in their standards, pricing models, and organizational structures reflect their distinct approaches to achieving these goals.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach and rigorous standards for safe working conditions, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihoods.
Weaknesses:
  • Questions on the effectiveness of its impact, as the benefits for small-scale producers can vary, and the additional cost of certification sometimes falls on them.
  • Actual market share remains small, limiting its overall impact.
  • Risk of consumer misunderstanding, where the label is perceived as a panacea for all issues related to fair trade and sustainability, oversimplifying complex trade dynamics.
Label
FSC
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - One of the best certification for forest-sourced products but with limitation in terms of scope.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Furniture, Home Decor, Packaging & Paper Products, Packaging & Paper Products, Books, Timber, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

FSC certification ensures that timber, paper, and other forest products are sourced from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.

FSC certification encompasses two main areas: Forest Management (FM) and Chain of Custody (CoC).

FM certification confirms that forests are managed in a way that preserves biological diversity, benefits the lives of local people, and sustains economic viability.

CoC certification tracks FSC-certified material through the production process - from the forest to the consumer, including all successive stages of processing, transformation, manufacturing, and distribution.

There are 3 labels: FSC 100% (All materials used come from responsibly managed, FSC-certified forests), FSC Recycled (Product is made from 100 per cent recycled materials), FSC Mix (Product is made with a mixture of materials from FSC-certified forests, recycled materials, and/or FSC-controlled wood.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous and detailed process
  • Dual certification system: Forest Management (FM) and Chain of Custody (CoC).
Weaknesses:
  • While FSC standards are rigorous, there have been instances where certification has been granted to forestry operations with questionable practices, raising concerns about the consistency and enforcement of FSC standards.
  • Does not include criteria for water resource depletion, air acidification, and toxicity. For paper, does not take into account the paper manufacturing stage, which is the most impactful in the product's lifecycle.
Label
GOTS - Global Organic Textile Standard| Content Claim Standards
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Benchmark certification for organic textiles with a lifecycle approach on a broad set of ethical factors.
Topics: Environment, Organic, FairTrade, Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing, Textiles, Bedding, Personal Care
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Developed since 2006, GOTS aims to ensure the organic status of textiles, from the harvesting of raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing, all the way to labeling.

The entire supply chain, including processors, spinners, weavers, dyers, and other manufacturers, and textile traders must be certified.

This certification has two levels: Labelled organic for products that contain 95% or more organic material, and another for those that have 70% to 94% organic material, in which case they have to disclose the percentage on the GOTS label.

The label certifies the entire process the material travels through and covers a range of criteria, including the prohibition of toxic and harmful chemicals in the production process, responsible management of water and energy resources, and adherence to social criteria based on the International Labour Organization's key conventions.

Note: Compared with OCS certification, GOTS has additional processing requirements that must be met, and a 70% requirement and restrictions on other fibers that are allowed to be blended.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to certifying organic textiles, encompassing a wide array of environmental and social aspects of production.
  • The certification's global recognition and thoroughness make it a benchmark in the textile industry.
Weaknesses:
  • Focus remains primarily on organic textiles, and it may not address all environmental concerns, such as the total carbon footprint or life cycle analysis of the products where those textiles are used.
Label
Leaping Bunny
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Stringent standard that ensure animal welfare for Cosmetic,Household Items and Cleaning Products
Topics: Animal welfare
Product Categories: Cosmetics, Household Items, Cleaning Products
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Internationally recognized program that certifies cosmetics, personal care, and household product companies as cruelty-free in all phase of product development by the company, its laboratories, or suppliers.

To receive the certification, companies must adhere to a strict set of standards and are subject to regular audits to ensure compliance.

Note: the Leaping Bunny seal does not guarantee that a product is vegan.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Stringent standard with a broad approach
  • Global recognition
Weaknesses:
  • Does not address other aspects of product manufacturing, such as environmental impact or worker rights
Label
Cradle-To-Cradle
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Very comprehensive certification focusing mainly on Health and Recyclability aspects
Topics: Environment, FairTrade, Health
Product Categories: Clothing, DIY, Home Decor, Personal Care, Cleaning products
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Cradle-to-Cradle certification is a globally recognized measure of safer, more sustainable products made for the circular economy. It assesses products across five quality categories: material health, material reutilization, renewable energy use, water stewardship, and social fairness.

This certification encourages manufacturers to design products with materials that are non-toxic, recyclable, or biodegradable, ensuring they can safely return to the earth or be reused. It promotes the use of renewable energy and efficient water use in manufacturing processes, and considers the social impact of production.

The goal is to create products that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically and socially sustainable, embodying the principle of “waste equals food” in the circular economy.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to sustainability, emphasizing the creation of products that are environmentally safe, sustainable, and part of a circular economy.
Weaknesses:
  • Focus on material health and recyclability might not address other important aspects of environmental sustainability, such as energy use or social responsibility in the supply chain.
Label
Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Global certification for sustainable fisheries
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

To be MSC certified, a fishery must demonstrate that it operates in a manner that maintains the productivity and health of the targeted species, minimizes the environmental impact of fishing operations, and adheres to effective and responsive management systems. This includes practices that ensure sustainable fish populations, minimize bycatch (unintentional catch of other species), and protect marine ecosystems.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive and rigorous assessment process
  • Effective consumer-driven approach in encouraging fisheries to adopt sustainable practices
Weaknesses:
  • Concentration of certification among larger, industrial fisheries due to cost and complexity, leaving out smaller-scale operations that might also practice sustainable fishing.
  • Debates over the effectiveness of the MSC's standards and assessment methods, with some critics arguing that they may not be stringent enough to fully address the complexities of marine ecosystems and the nuances of different fisheries.
Label
Textile Exchange - Content Claim Standard (CCS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Very comprehensive tracking and verification system for textile materials content.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

CCS is a chain of custody standard that provides a framework to verify the content claims of a product, ensuring that the materials claimed to be in a product are actually present. It is the basis of all Textile Exchange standards.

The standard involves tracking and verifying the flow of materials through the supply chain, from the source to the final product.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Track and verify the flow of materials through the entire supply chain, from the source to the final product.
Weaknesses:
  • While CCS is effective in verifying content claims, it does not address broader aspects of environmental and social sustainability, such as the environmental impact of production processes or social welfare in the supply chain.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency, eg it's not possible to know the identify of the farm that produces the raw material.
Label
Textile Exchange - Global Recycle Standard (GRS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous standard for verifying recycled content on the entire value chain but does not include aspects such as energy usage and water consumption.
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is a certification for products made from recycled materials, designed to meet comprehensive criteria that cover both environmental and social aspects.

It is applicable to any product that contains a minimum of 20% recycled material.

The GRS certification verifies the recycled content in products and also ensures that the production process meets high environmental and social criteria. This includes strict requirements on chemical use, wastewater treatment, energy management, and worker's rights and safety.

The certification encompasses a chain of custody requirement, ensuring that the source of the recycled content is clearly identified and traceable throughout the production process.

Note: both GRS and RCS provide assurance regarding the recycled content of products. However GRS includes a higher (50%) minimum recycled content percentage and additional social and environmental requirements related to processing and chemical use.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive and holistic approach to sustainability in products made from recycled materials.
  • Verification of the recycled content in products but also ensures that the entire production process adheres to stringent environmental and social criteria.
  • Certification's chain of custody requirement ensures transparency and traceability of the recycled content
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • Focus on recycled content might not fully address all environmental concerns, such as the life cycle impact or biodegradability of the final product.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency
Label
Textile Exchange - Organic Content Standard (OCS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous standard for verifying organic content on the entire value chain but does not address the use of chemicals or any social or environmental aspects beyond integrity of the organic material.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

OCS Certification is a standard for verifying and tracking organically grown material in a final product. It ensures that the organic material in a product is clearly identified, verified, and traced from its source to the final product.

It provides a strong chain of custody system that tracks organic material through all stages of production and processing.

A professional, third-party certification body audits each stage in the supply chain.

The standard comes in two levels: OCS 100 for products made with 95% or more organic material, and OCS Blended for products made with a minimum of 5% organic material.

Note: Compare with OCS, GOTS has additional processing requirements that must be met, and a 70% requirement and restrictions on other fibers that are allowed to be blended.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Clear and transparent chain of custody system
  • Offer flexibility to manufacturers in various industries thanks to its 2 tiers system
  • Textile Exchange launched Trackit program that centralizes and digitizes data for volume reconciliation, providing increased supply chain visibility.
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • The OCS certification does not address the use of chemicals or any social or environmental aspects of production beyond the integrity of the organic material.
  • While national organic standards certify the farm, OCS starts with the certification of the gin. Switching between standards at this stage can make it harder to deliver farm-level traceability to brands. It is also difficult to completely remove fraud (substitution of certified fibers) throughout the chain.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency
Label
Textile Exchange - Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous certification standard for Alpaca with a focus on animal welfare and land management practices
Topics: Animal Welfare, Environment
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS) is a certification aimed at ensuring ethical and sustainable practices in the sourcing of alpaca fiber.

The RAS encompasses various aspects of alpaca farming, including humane treatment of the animals, ensuring they are raised in a stress-free environment without cruel practices.

It also promotes sustainable land management practices that protect and enhance the local ecosystem where alpacas are farmed.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not address social and economic conditions of workers in the alpaca industry.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency
Label
Textile Exchange - Responsible Down Standard (RDS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous certification standard for Down and Feathers that come from waterfowl with a focus on animal welfare.
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing, Clothing, Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) is a global certification that ensures the ethical treatment of ducks and geese from which down and feathers are sourced.

This standard prohibits practices like live-plucking and force-feeding of birds. It ensures that the welfare of the animals is respected throughout their entire lifecycle, covering aspects like food and water quality, proper shelter, and prevention of diseases.

RDS certification involves a strict audit process, conducted by third-party certification bodies, to ensure compliance with these animal welfare standards.

RDS is intended to be used for down and feathers that come from waterfowl (including ducks and geese). The raising systems for other types of birds are very different and the standard would not be as useful in those scenarios.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Involves a thorough audit process by third-party certifiers
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not cover broader environmental impacts associated with down farming, such as land use and water management.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency
Label
Textile Exchange - Responsible Mohair Standard (RMS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous certification standard for Mohair with a focus on animal welfare and land management practices
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The RMS sets standards for the welfare of goats and the land they graze on, as well as for the farming practices used in mohair production. It includes criteria for responsible land management, aiming to promote sustainable grazing practices and preserve local ecosystems.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Emphasis on traceability and transparency in the mohair supply chain enhances its integrity
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not address broader issues in the mohair supply chain, such as the social and economic aspects of mohair production.
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency.
Label
Social Accountability International - SA 8000
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Comprehensive standard that complements local labor legislation.
Topics: FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Social Accountability International's SA 8000 certification is a globally recognized standard for social accountability in the workplace focusing on safeguarding workers' rights based on principles from international labor organizations, including child labor, forced labor, health and safety, freedom of association, discrimination, disciplinary practices, working hours, and fair compensation.

This certification is particularly relevant for companies with international supply chains, as it provides a uniform standard to measure and improve social performance across different countries and cultural contexts.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to improving labor conditions around the world.
  • Uniform standard to measure and improve social performance for international supply chains
  • Particularly impactful in industries and regions where labor rights have traditionally been under-protected, making it a vital tool in the fight for fair labor practices.
Weaknesses:
  • Challenge in ensuring consistent and rigorous enforcement of standards across different countries and industries, given the diversity of labor laws and practices worldwide.
Label
Textile Exchange - Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous certification standard for Wool with a focus on animal welfare and land management practices
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) is a standard that addresses the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on.

It ensures that wool comes from farms with a progressive approach to managing their land (sustainable grazing, soil management practices that enhance biodiversity and ecological health), and from sheep that have been treated responsibly (no museling, protection of their physical and psychological well-being). The social welfare aspect ensures that the rights and safety of workers involved in the wool production process are respected.

RWS-certified wool is traceable back to the farm, ensuring transparency and accountability in the wool supply chain.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to ethical and sustainable wool production.
  • With its traceability component, RWS offers transparency in the wool supply chain
  • Textile Exchange's strandards are reviewed every five years.
Weaknesses:
  • Voluntary nature of the certification means that its impact is dependent on the willingness of wool producers to participate and commit to its standards
  • As of now, Textile Exchange standards are not designed to provide full supply chain transparency
Label
Leather Working Group (LWG)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Globally recognized tiered certification for leather products with specific standards for each actor of the supply chain.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Textiles
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Developed by the Leather Working Group, an international group of stakeholders from the leather industry, the certification sets clear guidelines for environmental best practices and ensure traceability in the leather supply chain.

It assesses leather manufacturers on waste management, energy use, water treatment, and the use of chemicals.

It involves rigorous audits of tanneries and other leather processing facilities to ensure they meet these environmental standards.

It offers four different standards for the assessment of different actors within the leather supply chain (Leather manufacturer, Leather trader, Commissioning manufacturer, Subcontractor). LWG also offers different levels of certification, indicating the degree of compliance with its guidelines.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive assessment of tanneries and leather processing facilities against strict environmental criteria.
  • The certification offers various levels of compliance, which incentivizes continuous improvement
Weaknesses:
  • Ensuring consistent and thorough implementation of its standards across a diverse and global industry can be challenging, particularly in regions where environmental regulations may be less stringent. This can lead to variability in the environmental performance of certified entities.
  • Does not address the social or ethical dimensions of leather production, such as labor conditions or animal welfare.
Label
Fairmined
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - First-class certification for gold and silver covering environment and social aspects.
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Jewellery & Watches
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Fairmined is a certification for gold and silver that is mined in an environmentally responsible manner without the use of toxic chemicals, such as mercury and cyanide, which are typically used in extraction.

It requires miners to follow strict guidelines for environmental management, including the restoration of mining sites and the responsible management of waste and water.

In addition to ecological considerations, the standard also emphasizes fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and the ethical treatment of miners.

It is specifically focused on small-scale and artisanal gold mining operations.

Silver and Gold certified under the Fairmined certification carries a premium over non-certified gold, which goes directly back to the mining communities. This premium supports social development projects and environmental restoration efforts.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Strict guidelines on ecological mining practices, encompassing social and economic factors as well
  • Premium paid for Fairmined products directly support communities
Weaknesses:
  • Unknown
Label
Global Traceable Down Standard (Global TDS)
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Stringent certification based on on-site auditing to ensure animal welfare throughout the production cycle of down products.
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing, Clothing, Bedding, Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

This standard aims to provide consumers with assurance that the down and feathers in certified products are sourced from supply chains where the welfare of birds is protected.

It involves a rigorous audit process to verify that no live-plucking or force-feeding practices are used in the sourcing of down and feathers. It also ensures that the entire supply chain, from the farm to the final product, adheres to strict animal welfare standards.

Key aspects of this certification include traceability and transparency, allowing consumers and companies to track the origin of the down and feathers used in their products. This traceability is essential in verifying that ethical practices are maintained throughout the supply chain.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Stringent auditing process, which guarantees that down and feathers are sourced without resorting to inhumane practices like live-plucking or force-feeding.
  • Full traceability and transparency
Weaknesses:
  • Does not encompass broader environmental sustainability practices or social aspects of the production process.
Label
Global Organic Latex Standard - GOLS
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Strict certification for latex product with a lifecycle focus and environmental/health/social criterias.
Topics: Environment, Organic, FairTrade
Product Categories: Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) is a certification that sets strict requirements for the composition of organic latex poducts and their production process (from the farming of rubber trees to the manufacturing of the final latex product)

To be certified under GOLS, a latex product must contain more than 95% of certified organic raw material. Strict criteria must also be followed on the use of chemicals, the impact on the environment, and the health and safety conditions for workers.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Requirement that certified products must contain over 95% of certified organic raw material
  • Comprehensive lifecycle approach covering environmental, health and social criterias
Weaknesses:
  • Unknown
Label
PETA Approved Vegan
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - World recognized certification for vegan products
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Clothing, Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The PETA-Approved Vegan label certifies products that are entirely free from animal-derived ingredients and have not been tested on animals at any stage of production.

Companies that wish to use the PETA-Approved Vegan logo on their products must go through a thorough verification processthat includes a review of the ingredients and materials used in the products, as well as the production processes .

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Thorough certification for vegan products
  • Certification covers a broad range of product categories, from clothing and accessories to cosmetics,
Weaknesses:
  • Does not account for other environmental or social sustainability factors than animal-cruelty.Products certified as vegan might still have significant environmental impacts, such as high carbon footprints or the use of unsustainable materials, which are not covered under this certification.
Label
TCO Certified
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Comprehensive standard for full lifecycle assessment of IT products that needs to be regularly verified
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Electronics
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

TCO Certified label focuses on promoting environmentally responsible and socially responsible manufacturing and use of electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, displays, and other office equipment.

It assesses a wide range of criteria, including environmental management systems, reduction of hazardous materials, energy efficiency, corporate social responsibility in the manufacturing process, and product lifespan.

It requires regular independent verification of products and their manufacturing processes to ensure compliance with these standards.

A key aspect of TCO Certified is its emphasis on the entire lifecycle of IT products, from the extraction of raw materials to end-of-life handling, including recycling and minimizing waste.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Encompass the entire lifecycle of IT products.
  • Requirement for regular independent verification
  • Certification's holistic approach is particularly effective in addressing both environmental concerns and social issues within the electronics industry.
Weaknesses:
  • Rapid pace of technological innovation in the IT sector presents a constant challenge in keeping the certification criteria up-to-date and relevant.
Label
Ecocert
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Comprehensive certification focusing on organic aspect only, but covering a wide range of products.
Topics: Environment, Organic, Health
Product Categories: Food, Personal Care, DIY
Geographical Scope: France
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Description

Founded in France in 1991, Ecocert has become one of the most recognized organic certification organizations worldwide. It sets rigorous standards for environmental sustainability, overseeing the entire supply chain from farming to finished products.

For agricultural products, the certification ensures adherence to organic farming practices, which include the non-use of synthetic chemicals, GMOs, and irradiation, as well as the promotion of biodiversity and ecological balance.

In the cosmetics and in the cleaning products sectors, Ecocert certifies products that contain a significant amount of natural and organic ingredients, and are produced using environmentally friendly processes

Ecocert also has specific certification for ecological paints and coatings, emphasizing ecological and sustainable practices in their production. Key criteria include the limitation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), avoidance of harmful chemicals, sustainable sourcing of raw materials, and minimizing the overall ecological footprint of the production process.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive standards and international recognition, establishing it as a trusted certification for organic and eco-friendly products.
  • Cover a broader range of products for organic agriculture, cosmetics, textiles, and paints.
Weaknesses:
  • Certification's focus on organic and natural criteria may not fully address broader sustainability issues, such as carbon footprint or social responsibility in the supply chain.
Label
SCS-007 Jewelry Sustainability Standard – Sustainability Rated Diamonds
Relevancy for consumer: High - Stringent certification for sustainable diamonds covering both mined and lab-grown gems.
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Jewellery & Watches
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

It is a standard that assesses and verifies the sustainability of diamonds across environmental, social, and ethical criteria.

The standard covers both mined and lab-grown diamonds.

It quarantees verified origin traceability through advanced testing, gem identification protocols, surveillance audits and sampling across the supply chain, as well as Verified Climate Neutrality.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive Coverage assessing both environmental and social impacts.
  • Guaranteed origin with full traceability and climate neutrality
  • Covers both mined and lab-grown diamonds.
  • Involves independent verification
Weaknesses:
  • As a relatively new standard, it is not yet well recognized by consumers or within the industry.
Label
EPEAT
Relevancy for consumer: Very High - Rigorous lifecycle standard for certification of electronics product
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Electronics
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

EPEAT certifies electronics based on environmental attributes. It currently includes categories for PCs and Displays, Televisions, and Imaging Equipment (printers, copiers, scanners, multifunction devices, fax machines and mailing machines).

EPEAT rates products on a lifecycle basis. The system addresses the elimination of toxic substances, the use of recycled and recyclable materials, product design for recycling, product longevity, energy efficiency, corporate performance and packaging attributes.

Products are rated Gold, Silver or Bronze depending upon the number of environmental criteria they meet.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Clear and rigorous standard for environmental performance in electronics.
  • Its tiered rating system (Bronze, Silver, Gold) offers manufacturers an incentive to exceed basic requirements
Weaknesses:
  • Dynamic and rapid pace of technological advancement in electronics can sometimes outstrip the criteria set by EPEAT, leading to challenges in keeping the standards relevant and up-to-date.
  • Challenge of ensuring compliance and enforcement of standards across a diverse and global supply chain.
Label
Agriculture biologique (AB)
Relevancy for consumer: High - Strict standards applied (focus only on production of organic food product)
Topics: Environment, Organic
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: France
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Description

French certification for organic farming and products with strict organic standards: it prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, makes mandatory the sourcing of seeds and plants from organic farming, it also promotes natural farming methods that support biodiversity, soil health, and reduce chemical runoff.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Strict standards for organic farming
  • Prohibition of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
  • Highly recognized and trusted by consumers, particularly in France.
Weaknesses:
  • Challenging certifications for smaller farms due to high requirement standard and costs.
  • Does not address the entire spectrum of sustainability issues such as carbon footprint / water usage / compliance with seasons / avoidance of greenhouse-grown or soilless cultivation.
Label
PEFC
Relevancy for consumer: High - World recognized certification for sustainable forest-sourced products sometimes critized for it's industry-led nature
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Furniture, Home Decor, Packaging & Paper Products, Packaging & Paper Products, Books, , Timber
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

PEFC certification signifies that forest products – such as wood or paper – are sourced from forests that are managed responsibly. Key aspects of this management include the protection of biodiversity, worker's rights, and indigenous peoples' rights, along with the maintenance of ecological processes and conservation values.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to sustainable forest management, emphasizing ecological, social, and ethical standards.
  • As a globally recognized system, it attracts a wide range of stakeholders in the forestry sector, from large corporations to small landowners.
Weaknesses:
  • PEFC's reliance on national bodies to set local standards can lead to variability in certification rigor, raising concerns about consistency.
  • Its industry-led nature sometimes draws criticism regarding the potential for conflicts of interest and the depth of its commitment to environmental and social issues.
Label
Amfori BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative Code of Conduct
Relevancy for consumer: High - Strict standards verified by third-party auditors (focus only on social aspects of the supply chain)
Topics: FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Amfori BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) is not a certification but a membership-based organization that provides a common code of conduct and a platform for companies to improve social performance in their supply chains.

Its Code of Conduct outlines key principles that member companies commit to implement within their supply chains: prohibition of forced and child labor, fair remuneration, decent working hours, workplace health and safety, ethical business behavior, and environmental protection.

Compliance with these principles is monitored through regular audits conducted by independent third-party auditors.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Unified Code of Conduct which sets out clear principles on labor rights, fair remuneration, workplace safety, and ethical business behavior.
  • This framework allows member companies to monitor and set improvement targets for working conditions across global supply chains systematically.
  • Use of independent third-party auditors for compliance checks adds credibility to the initiative.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not provide a certification or label that can be directly recognized by consumers, potentially limiting its visibility and impact on consumer choice.
  • Focus is less comprehensive in addressing broader environmental sustainability concerns, as it mainly focus on social aspects.
Label
Better Cotton Initiative BCI
Relevancy for consumer: High - Comprehensive assessment of cotton manufacturing but use of a Mass Balance system that has been criticized
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a global not-for-profit organization and the largest cotton sustainability program in the world.

The BCI certification aims to improve the environmental, social, and economic aspects of cotton farming by reducing the environmental impact of cotton production, improving livelihoods and economic development in cotton-producing areas, and ensuring better working conditions for cotton farmers and workers.

Cotton products that are BCI-certified indicate that the cotton used in these products is sourced from BCI farmers who follow the initiative's guidelines for sustainable and responsible cotton production.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Focus on both environmental and social aspects of cotton farming.
  • Commitment to improve the livelihoods and welfare of cotton farmers and workers.
Weaknesses:
  • Challenge to ensure consistency and compliance across the complex cotton industry.
  • Does not necessarily guarantee that the cotton is organic.
  • Better Cotton is the only major label that is not physically traceable to a specific product due to its use of a Mass Balance system. While this system is suited for scaling more sustainable cotton quickly and cost-effectively, it has come under significant scrutiny.
Label
bluesign
Relevancy for consumer: High - Comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability and safety in the textile industry.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Textiles
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The bluesign certification is a globally recognized standard in the textile industry focused on environmental sustainability, health, and safety.

It is based on a comprehensive production control system that uses Input Stream Management.

Bluesign certification evaluates all aspects of the textile manufacturing process, including the use of raw materials, energy, water usage, air emissions, and chemical management.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Stands out for its focus on the entire supply chain, evaluating every aspect of textile production, from raw material use to the finished product, including water and energy usage, air emissions, and chemical management.
  • Recognized globally and is influential in driving manufacturers towards more sustainable and responsible practices.
Weaknesses:
  • While bluesign covers a wide array of environmental and safety aspects, it primarily focuses on the manufacturing process and does not extensively address issues related to the end-of-life of products, such as recyclability or biodegradability.
Label
COSMOS Organic / Natural
Relevancy for consumer: High - Harmonized standard for organic and natural cosmetics.
Topics: Environment, Organic, Animal Welfare, Health
Product Categories: Cosmetics, Personal Care
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

COSMOS is an harmonized certification system developed by several European organic and natural cosmetics certification bodies (Ecocer, Cosmebio, ICEA, Soil Association, BDIH).

Companies seeking COSMOS certification must disclose detailed information about their product formulations and production processes. Animal testing for both finished products and their individual ingredients is prohibited.

Two certifications are available: COSMOS Organic Certification is awarded to product containing 95% natural ingredients and 20% of organic ingredients, while COSMOS Natural Certification is awared to product containing only 95% natural ingredients.

Note: While both COSMOS and Ecocert certifications focus on organic and natural cosmetics, COSMOS is a collaborative certification developed by multiple certification bodies, while Ecocert is a single certification body. Both certifications have high standards, but the specific criteria and requirements may differ slightly, with some variations in ingredient percentages and environmental criteria.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Globally recognized certification for organic and natural cosmetics.
  • Harmonized standard developed by multiple certification bodies.
  • Companies must disclose detailed information about formulations and processes.
  • Strictly prohibits animal testing for both finished products and individual ingredients
Weaknesses:
  • While COSMOS aims for harmonization, there can still be variations in stringency and interpretation of standards among different certification bodies. This can lead to inconsistencies in certification outcomes.
Label
Downpass
Relevancy for consumer: High - Strict certification dedicated solely to down products that monitors animal welfare and quality.
Topics: Animal Welfare, Health
Product Categories: Clothing, Clothing, Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Downpass certification is a standard that ensures the ethical sourcing of down and feathers used in bedding, clothing, and other products, focusing on animal welfare and traceability of the down and feather material.

Announced and unannounced visits by auditors several times a year monitor the “rearing conditions and keeping of the animals.” Material from foie-gras farms or farms that live-pluck is prohibited, live-plucking or force-fedding as well.

In addition to animal welfare, Downpass also emphasizes the quality and safety of the down and feather fill, ensuring that they meet high cleanliness and hygiene standards.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Strict prohibition of inhumane practices like live-plucking and force-feeding of birds.
  • Auditing process for Downpass certification is conducted by independent third parties.
Weaknesses:
  • While products may be ethically sourced in terms of animal welfare, they might not necessarily meet broader environmental sustainability criteria.
  • Focus on down and feathers means that the certification is quite niche and specific to certain product categories.
Label
EC1 GEV-Emicode
Relevancy for consumer: High - Highly regarded but mostly european certification for low-emission building and decorating materials.
Topics: Health
Product Categories: DIY
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The EC1 GEV-Emicode certification is a label awarded to building and decorating materials that focus on minimizing volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Developed by the German Association for the Control of Emissions in Products for Flooring Installation (GEV), this certification is applied to products like adhesives, sealants, and floor coverings.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Stringent standard for low-emission building and decorating materials.
  • Highly regarded in the building industry.
Weaknesses:
  • Focus on low emissions, while crucial, may overlook other important environmental aspects such as resource sustainability or overall ecological footprint.
  • Certification's recognition is predominantly within Europe.
Label
ENERGY Star
Relevancy for consumer: High - Strict and widely recognized label for energy-saving products.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Home Appliances, Electronics
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

It is a widely recognized program for energy efficiency, primarily in the United States.

Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. The certification covers a broad range of products, including appliances, heating and cooling equipment, lighting, electronics, and even commercial and industrial buildings. ENERGY STAR certified products typically use 20% to 30% less energy than required by federal standards.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Strict energy efficiency guidelines.
  • Widely recognized label
  • Covers a broad range of products from household appliances to commercial buildings.
Weaknesses:
  • Challenge of keeping up with the rapid advancements in technology and continually updating standards to reflect the latest energy-saving capabilities.
  • Focus on energy efficiency does not necessarily address other environmental aspects, such as manufacturing processes or product disposal.
Label
EPA WaterSense
Relevancy for consumer: High - Water-saving certification based on independent tests, covering a wide array of products
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Bathroom equipments
Geographical Scope: North America
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Description

Watersense certification is awarded to products, services, and homes that meet strict criteria for water efficiency and performance.

Products bearing the WaterSense label have been independently tested and verified to ensure they use at least 20% less water than average products in their category, without sacrificing performance or efficiency.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Independent tests and verification
  • Covers a wide range of water-using products, from plumbing fixtures to irrigation systems, also extending to homes.
Weaknesses:
  • Voluntary nature of the program, which might limit its reach and impact compared to mandatory water efficiency standards.
  • While the program focuses on reducing water usage, it doesn't necessarily address other environmental aspects related to product manufacturing or the full lifecycle impact of products.
Label
EU Ecolabel
Relevancy for consumer: High - Well established European certification for ecological product
Topics: Environment, Health
Product Categories: Cleaning products, Personal Care, Clothing, Furniture, Textiles, DIY
Geographical Scope: Europe
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Description

The EU Ecolabel certification, also known as the EU Flower, is a voluntary environmental labeling program established by the European Union.

It is awarded to products and services that have a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from raw material extraction to production, use, and disposal.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Well-established certification program.
  • Comprehensive and strict criteria, covering various environmental aspects such as energy efficiency, resource use, emissions, and toxicity.
Weaknesses:
  • Primarily focused on products and services within the European Union
Label
Fair Trade Certified
Relevancy for consumer: High - Widly recognized social label that might be confused with the similar "Fair Trade" certification.
Topics: FairTrade, Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Products bearing the Fair Trade Certified label have met rigorous standards that require safe working conditions, environmental protection, sustainable livelihoods, and community development funds for farmers and workers.

A key component of the Fair Trade Certified program is the premium that buyers pay on top of the agreed fair price. This extra money goes directly to a community development fund managed by the producers themselves. The producers decide democratically how to use these funds to meet their social, economic, and environmental needs, such as educational and healthcare improvements, farming equipment, or environmental conservation efforts.

Note: "FairTrade" and "Fair Trade Certified" refer to certifications that, while similar in their goals of promoting ethical trade practices, are managed by different organizations and have distinct standards and focuses. Both certifications aim to improve trading conditions, support sustainable farming, and empower producers in developing countries. However, the differences in their standards, pricing models, and organizational structures reflect their distinct approaches to achieving these goals.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach and rigorous standards for safe working conditions, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihoods.
  • The additional community development premium, a unique aspect of Fair Trade Certified, provides vital funds directly to producers, allowing them to invest in community projects and improvements.
Weaknesses:
  • While the certification focuses on ethical labor and environmental practices, the direct impact on the end consumer in terms of product quality or price is not a primary concern.
Label
GoodWeave
Relevancy for consumer: High - Niche certification for forced labor free rugs & carpets
Topics: FairTrade, Forced Labor
Product Categories: Home Decor
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Founded in 1994 by Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, GoodWeave International works to stop child labor, forced labor, and bonded labor in global supply chains, starting with the rug-making sector.

To earn the certification, manufacturers must agree to random, unannounced inspections by GoodWeave inspectors and comply with strict standards regarding labor practices.

The certification also provide educational opportunities to children in weaving communities and ensure safe and dignified working conditions for adult workers.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous inspection process, which includes random and unannounced visits to manufacturing sites
  • Support educational initiatives for children in weaving communities, thereby addressing the root causes of child labor.
Weaknesses:
  • Scope of GoodWeave’s impact is primarily concentrated in the carpet and rug sector and might not be as well-known or influential in other industries where child labor is prevalent.
  • Do not cover other aspects of sustainability, such as environmental impact or broader social issues beyond the immediate scope of labor practices.
Label
Natrue
Relevancy for consumer: High - Rigorous standard in the cosmetic sector with thorough testing and ingredient verification
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Cosmetics
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Natrue-Label certifies that cosmetic product is as natural as possible, using natural and organic ingredients, soft manufacturing processes and environmentally friendly practices.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous standards
  • Natrue's certification process, which involves thorough testing and ingredient verification, supports transparency and integrity in product formulations
Weaknesses:
  • Do not cover environmental aspects beyond natural and organic ingredients in cosmetic products
Label
Nature et Progrès
Relevancy for consumer: High - Very high standard for organic agricultural, food and personal care products mostly confined to France.
Topics: Environment, Organic, Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Food, Personal Care
Geographical Scope: France
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Description

Nature et Progrès is a French certification created in 1972 that focuses on promoting sustainable and environmentally-friendly agricultural and food production practices.

This certification is known for its strict standards, which go beyond the basic requirements for organic certification, emphasizing biodiversity conservation, ethical treatment of animals, and the use of natural and non-toxic inputs in farming and food production.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous environmental standards that go beyond conventional organic certification
  • Holistic approach to agriculture and food production, considering not only organic farming methods but also ethical treatment of animals and fair labor practices.
  • Often involves local communities and consumers in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for sustainable practices.
Weaknesses:
  • Very strict standards and holistic approach can make it more complex and time-consuming for producers to achieve
  • Do not have the same level of global recognition than other labels
Label
Nest seal of Ethical Handcraft
Relevancy for consumer: High - Strict certification tailored for artisanal processes
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Furniture, Home Decor, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

This certification is designed to bring greater transparency and ethical standards to the often informal and decentralized artisan sector.

The certification process involves assessing artisan businesses against a set of standards that cover critical areas such as fair wages, safe working conditions, environmental responsibility, and transparency in business practices.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Tailored to recognize the unique nature of handcraft production, which often takes place in small workshops or homes rather than traditional factory settings.Certification is relevant and applicable to artisan businesses, unlike broader industrial standards that may not fit the handcraft model.
Weaknesses:
  • The decentralized and varied nature of artisan work can make the implementation and monitoring of standards complex and resource-intensive.
  • Impact is limited by the overall size and reach of the handcraft market compared to larger, more industrial sectors.
Label
OEKO-TEX
Relevancy for consumer: High - Thorough certification only focused on chemical safety for textites
Topics: Health
Product Categories: Clothing, Textiles
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The certification ensures that textiles and garments are free from harmful substances that could be detrimental to human health.

OEKO-TEX offers several certifications, with the most well-known being the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX. This certification tests for a wide range of substances, including regulated and non-regulated chemicals that may be harmful. It covers multiple stages of textile production, from raw materials to finished products, ensuring that every component of an item, including threads, buttons, and other accessories, meets the specified criteria.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • The STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, in particular, offers a comprehensive testing regime that covers a wide range of regulated and non-regulated chemicals.This thorough approach ensures that every component of a textile product, down to the smallest details like threads and buttons, meets stringent safety standards.
  • Globally recognized certifications, making it a widely accepted benchmark in the textile industry.
Weaknesses:
  • While it focuses extensively on chemical safety, it does not address the broader environmental impact of textile production, such as water and energy use, or the overall carbon footprint. This means that products certified by OEKO-TEX might meet chemical safety standards but may not necessarily be environmentally sustainable.
  • Primarily focuses on the end product and does not extensively cover social or ethical aspects of the production process, such as labor conditions or fair wages in the manufacturing facilities.
Label
Regenerative Organic Certificed (ROC)
Relevancy for consumer: High - Comprehensive framework for food products going beyon traditional organic standards.
Topics: Environment, Organic, FairTrade, Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) certification is a holistic agricultural standard that focuses on regenerative organic farming practices, going beyond traditional organic standards.

It covers not only the absence of toxic chemicals and GMOs but also the promotion of practices that enhance soil health (use of cover crops, crop rotations, reduced tillage, composting), animal welfare (humane conditions, access to the outdoors), and social fairness (fair labor practices)

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Holistic approach to agriculture, combining organic farming with regenerative practices: soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness.
Weaknesses:
  • Rigorous and multifaceted standards may be difficult for some farmers to meet, particularly small-scale producers who may lack resources or face geographical and climatic constraints.
Label
Vegan
Relevancy for consumer: High - World renowned certifications for vegan products
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Food, Personal Care, Textiles, Clothing, Shoes, Bedding, Textiles
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Organizations such as Vegan Action (in the United States) and The Vegan Society (in the United Kingdom) offer Vegan certification programs. To receive this certification, products must not contain meat, dairy, eggs, honey, or other animal-derived substances, and must not involve animal testing at any stage of product development.

The certification process typically involves a detailed review of the product's ingredients and production methods to ensure compliance with vegan standards.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Thorough review of a product’s ingredients and production methods, ensuring strict compliance with vegan principles.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not address other aspects of sustainability or ethical production. For instance, a product could be vegan but still have a significant environmental impact due to its production process or use of non-sustainable materials.
  • Does not cover the working conditions or labor practices involved in the production process.
Label
BCorp
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Well known certifications with a comprehensive assessment of a company operation but risk of greenwashing.
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

B Corp certification is a certification for businesses for their social and environmental performance, issued by B Lab, a global non-profit organization.

To obtain and maintain the certification, businesses must score 80 or more on an impact assessment, integrate the B Corp commitments into their governance documents, and pay annual fees.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive assessment of a company's social and environmental impact, which goes beyond financial contributions to include factors like employee benefits, community engagement, and environmental footprint.
Weaknesses:
  • Risk of being used as a form of greenwashing, with companies leveraging the certification for reputation rather than making deeper operational changes.
  • There are questions around real-world effectiveness of the certification, questioning whether it leads to significant changes in business operations.
Label
BDIH
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive assessment but level of application can differ between certification bodies (focus on natural and organic cosmetic/personal care products).
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Cosmetics, Personal Care
Geographical Scope: Germany
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Description

BDIH is a German organization that provides certifications for natural and organic cosmetics and related products. BDIH-certified products do not contain synthetic fragrances, parabens, or certain petrochemical ingredients, and they are often cruelty-free.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive framework for evaluating products.
  • Encourages the use of environmentally friendly practices and sustainable sourcing of ingredients.
  • BDIH-certified products are typically cruelty-free, meaning they do not undergo animal testing.
Weaknesses:
  • Primarily focuses on natural and organic cosmetics and related products. Do not cover other aspects of sustainability or ethical considerations.
  • While BDIH sets clear standards, the level of stringency can vary among different certification bodies and countries. This may lead to inconsistencies in product evaluation and certification.
  • BDIH certification is primarily recognized in Europe, and its global recognition may be limited compared to some other certification standards.
Label
Bio Suisse
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Stric and comprehensive assessment more complete than the European standards, but limited to Switzerland
Topics: Environment, Organic
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: Switzerland
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Description

Bio Suisse is a prominent organic certification in Switzerland, representing high standards for organic farming and production.

To obtain Bio Suisse certification, products must be produced and processed according to strict guidelines that include the use of organic ingredients, the prohibition of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, the promotion of biodiversity, and adherence to animal welfare standards.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Criteria exceed the standard European Union organic regulations,
  • Encompass not only the use of organic ingredients and the prohibition of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers but also biodiversity, animal welfare, and fair trade practices.
Weaknesses:
  • Challenging framework for farmers and producers, particularly smaller operations or those outside Switzerland, in meeting the certification requirements. This could limit the range and diversity of Bio Suisse-certified products available in the market.
  • While Bio Suisse is a highly respected label within Switzerland, its recognition and influence may be more limited on a global scale compared to other international organic certifications.
Label
Blue Angel / Der Blaue Engel
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive certification established in 1978 primarly limited to Germany.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: Germany
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Description

Der Blaue Engel (The Blue Angel) is a German certification for environmentally friendly products and services. Established in 1978, it is one of the oldest eco-labels in the world.

Criteria for the certification include considerations like energy efficiency, use of hazardous materials, and recyclability.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • One of the oldest and most respected eco-labels.
  • Covers a broad range of product categories.
Weaknesses:
  • Certification's complexity and rigid criteria, making it challenging for many products and companies to qualify.
  • Primarily limited to Germany, potentially diminishing its global influence.
  • Certification may struggle to keep pace with rapidly emerging technologies and new environmental challenges.
Label
Canopy Style Initiative
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Innovative certification but somewhat confidential and focused only on the conservation of ancient and endangered forests.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Brands and designers who participate in the CanopyStyle Initiative agree to adopt policies that prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials, such as alternative fibers, and to ensure that their supply chains do not contribute to the destruction of ancient and endangered forests.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Unlike many other certifications that cover a broad range of environmental issues, CanopyStyle specifically targets the conservation of ancient and endangered forests. This focus allows for a more concentrated effort in this critical area.
Weaknesses:
  • Focus is primarily on forest conservation, which means other environmental issues like water usage, chemical pollution, and carbon emissions might not be adequately addressed.
  • Complexity of global supply chains in the fashion industry can make it challenging to ensure complete compliance and transparency.
  • As a relatively specific certification, it may not have as broad an influence as more comprehensive sustainability certifications, limiting its overall impact on the industry.
Label
Carbon Disclosure Project - CDP
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive, detailed and public assessment of companies' environmental impacts but does not specify targets for improvements.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is not a certification program but a global non-profit organization that runs a disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states, and regions to manage their environmental impacts (carbon emissions, climate change, water usage, and forest conservation)

Organizations participating in the CDP provide detailed annual reports on their environmental performance, which are then made available to investors, customers, and the public.

The CDP uses this data to score organizations on their environmental management and transparency, providing a benchmark for their environmental performance.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive data collection and scoring system.
  • Detailed annual reporting publicly available.
Weaknesses:
  • Voluntary nature of this scheme results in a lack of representation from certain sectors or regions.
  • While the CDP provides a platform for reporting environmental impacts, it does not set specific targets or requirements for environmental improvement.
Label
Certipur
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Relevant certication for bedding products but do not encompass key steps in the lifecycle of product such as manufacturing and disposal.
Topics: Environment, Health
Product Categories: Bedding, Furniture
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The CertiPUR certification is a certification program for foam used in bedding and upholstered furniture.

CertiPUR-certified foams are free from ozone depleters, mercury, lead, heavy metals, formaldehyde, phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and have low VOC emissions.

This certification also considers durability and performance of the foam.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive assessment of foam products where consumer concern about chemical exposure is high.
Weaknesses:
  • Does not encompass the entire lifecycle of the foam products, such as manufacturing processes or end-of-life disposal.
  • As an industry-specific certification, its impact and recognition are primarily limited to the realm of furniture and bedding.
Label
Cotton Made in Africa
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive appoach to cotton farming focused on improving mainly conventional cotton farming in Sub-Saharan Africa
Topics: Environment, FairTrade, Forced Labor
Product Categories: Clothing, Bedding, Textiles, Clothing, Bedding
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Cottom Made In Africa focuses on environmental, economic, and social aspects of cotton farming in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Criteria include efficient and responsible use of water, reduced chemical and pesticide use, and adherence to certain social standards, such as banning child and forced labor, and ensuring fair working conditions.

The initiative also emphasizes the importance of training farmers in sustainable agriculture techniques, helping them to increase yields and improve the quality of their cotton in an environmentally friendly way.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach that combines environmental sustainability with social responsibility.
  • Emphasizes capacity building, providing farmers with training in sustainable agriculture techniques.
Weaknesses:
  • Certification's impact is predominantly localized to Sub-Saharan Africa and may not be as widely recognized.
  • Focus on improving conventional cotton farming practices means that CmiA does not necessarily guarantee organic cotton.
Label
Demeter Biodynamic Certification
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Certification that goes beyon organic standards but criticized as lacking scientific validation.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Food, Personal Care, Textiles
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Demeter certification, also known as "Demeter Biodynamic Certification," is a rigorous and holistic agricultural certification program. It focuses on sustainable farming practices that go beyond organic standards. Demeter-certified farms adhere to principles that emphasize biodiversity, soil health, and the integration of the farm as a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Goes beyond organic standards.
  • Certification is recognized globally
Weaknesses:
  • Some critics argue that biodynamic farming lacks scientific validation and that the effectiveness of certain practices is anecdotal rather than evidence-based.
Label
Fair Wear Foundation
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Voluntary scheme to ensure social standards in garment supply chain with no formal label that consumers can easily identify.
Topics: FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) is not a certification but a non-profit organization that works with brands, manufacturers, and other industry stakeholders to improve labor conditions in garment factories. FWF focuses on enhancing the lives of workers in the garment industry.

FWF members commit to implementing and adhering to a strict Code of Labour Practices that includes standards on living wages, reasonable hours of work, safe working conditions, and the prohibition of child labor and forced labor.

FWF conducts audits to assess compliance with these standards and also works with factories to implement improvements where necessary.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive Code of Labour Practices
  • Collaborative model facilitates shared responsibility and collective action.
  • Detailed reporting and audits
Weaknesses:
  • No formal "FWF-certified" label that consumers can easily identify on products.
  • Voluntary participation by brands and manufacturers means that its impact is limited to its members and does not encompass the entire garment industry.
Label
Grüner Knopf
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Government-run certification from Germany with a dual system that assesses product and company responsibility practices.
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: Germany
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Description

The Grüner Knopf (Green Button) is a government-run sustainable textile certification in Germany, launched in 2019

The standards ensure that textiles are produced under sustainable conditions, with considerations for both the ecological impact of production and the welfare of workers in the supply chain.

The certification not only evaluates the final product but also the company as a whole, including their corporate responsibility practices.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Dual criteria system, which assesses not only the product but also the company's overall corporate responsibility practices.
Weaknesses:
  • Relatively new and specific certification, primarily established in Germany
Label
NF-Environnement
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive and rigorous life cycle assessment focusing on environmental impacts but limited to French market
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Furniture, DIY, Others
Geographical Scope: France
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Description

NF-Environnement is a French eco-label that assesses a range of criteria, including the efficiency and impact of resource use, the reduction of harmful substances, product durability, and recyclability, throughout the lifecycle of the product.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous environmental standards
Weaknesses:
  • Primarily concentrated in France.
  • Focus on specific environmental criteria, while beneficial for product quality, may not fully address broader aspects of sustainability, such as social responsibility or overall corporate practices.
Label
Nordic Swan
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive and rigorous life cycle assessment focusing only on environmental impacts but limited to scandinavian countries.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: Sweden,Norway,Denmark,Finland
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Description

The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is a certification in the Nordic countries, established in 1989 by the Nordic Council of Ministers. It signifies that a product or service meets rigorous environmental standards across its life cycle—from raw materials to production, use, and disposal (energy efficiency, reduction of harmful chemicals, and product durability)

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive and rigorous environmental standards, which are regularly updated to reflect current ecological challenges.
  • Has a significant influence in the Nordic countries
  • Focus on Life cycle assessment
Weaknesses:
  • Primarily recognized in the Nordic countries
Label
Österreichisches Umweltzeichen (Austrian Ecolabel)
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Rigorous standards that encompass a wide range of environmental aspects and various product categories, but mostly confined to Austria.
Topics: Environment, Health
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: Austria
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Description

The Österreichisches Umweltzeichen (Austrian Ecolabel) is an environmental certification awarded by the Austrian government Since 1990 to products and services that meet high environmental standards and demonstrate reduced environmental impact.

Products and services must undergo a rigorous assessment process, evaluating various environmental factors such as energy efficiency, use of sustainable materials, reduction of harmful emissions, and waste minimization.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Rigorous assessment criteria, which encompass a wide range of environmental aspects such as energy efficiency, sustainable material use, emission reduction, and waste minimization.
  • Covers various categories making it versatile and relevant to a broad spectrum of industries.
  • Government backing adds a level of credibility and trust
Weaknesses:
  • Recognition and influence are primarily within Austria and surrounding regions
Label
Rainforest Alliance
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Widly recognized label certifying sustainable agriculture, forestry and tourism services that is not always strict enough in practice.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Food, Personal Care, Clothing, Furniture, Home Decor, Packaging & Paper Products, Packaging & Paper Products, Books, , Timber
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Rainforest Alliance certification is awarded to farms, forests, and tourism enterprises that meet comprehensive standards that include the sustainable management of land, protection of wildlife habitats, conservation of biodiversity, and the implementation of climate-smart agricultural practices. It also emphasizes fair treatment and good working conditions for workers, community engagement, and responsible business practices.

This certification is common in products like coffee, tea, chocolate, bananas, and other agricultural goods.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to sustainable agriculture, forestry, and tourism.
  • Cover environmental as well as fair trade aspects
Weaknesses:
  • Critics point out that its standards, while comprehensive, may not always be strict enough in practice. A company can be certified with a low level of requirement, as its progress is considered important.
  • Challenge to effectively monitor and enforce compliance across diverse and often remote locations.
Label
Responsible Jewellery Council
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Comprehensive approach from mining to retail but risk of greenwashing and no garanty that products are fully traceable and responsibly sourced
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Jewellery & Watches
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) certification is a globally recognized standard for ethical and sustainable practices in the jewelry and watch industry. It covers the whole supply chain, and areas of human rights, labor rights, environmental impact, mining practices, and product disclosure.

Companies that seek RJC certification undergo a rigorous audit process to ensure compliance with these standards.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to ethical, social, and environmental practices
  • Covers a wide spectrum, from mining to retail
  • The RJC certification requires independent verification by an RJC third-party approved auditor
Weaknesses:
  • Concerns about the thoroughness and rigor of its auditing process, with some suggesting it might not be stringent enough to catch all unethical practices.
  • Potential greenwashing, as companies could use the certification primarily as a marketing tool without making significant ethical changes in their operations.
  • The RJC certification does not guarantee that the jewellery and watch products are fully traceable and responsibly sourced, as the RJC Chain of Custody standard is optional and only applies to a limited number of materials
  • Effectiveness of the RJC in driving industry-wide change is debated, as participation is voluntary and not all key players in the industry are members.
Label
Stop the Traffik - Traffik Free Protocol Responsible Sourcing Network
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Focused certification that combats human trafficking worldwide, but with a limited reach.
Topics: FairTrade, Forced Labor
Product Categories: Clothing
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Stop the Traffik is a certification program designed to combat human trafficking and ensure ethical labor practices in supply chains.

It focuses on identifying and mitigating risks associated with human trafficking, forced labor, and modern slavery in the sourcing of materials and manufacturing processes.

Companies that participate in this program are required to adopt and enforce policies that promote fair labor practices. This includes conducting thorough due diligence on their suppliers, providing training for employees and suppliers on identifying and preventing human trafficking, and ensuring transparency and accountability in their supply chains.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Certification specifically targets human trafficking, forced labor, and modern slavery, a focus that is not always present in other certifications.
  • Requires companies to conduct thorough due diligence on their suppliers.
  • Protocol includes provisions for training employees and suppliers, which is crucial for identifying and preventing human trafficking.
Weaknesses:
  • Ensuring ongoing compliance and effectively enforcing standards throughout the entire supply chain can be difficult.
Label
Sustainable Forestry Initiative SFI
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - Certification for forest sourced products that is mostly focused on North America
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Furniture, Home Decor, Packaging & Paper Products, Packaging & Paper Products, Books, , Timber
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

SFI is a North American standard focused on promoting responsible forest management.

It is awarded to forest managers and landowners who adhere to specific guidelines that ensure their forestry practices are environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically viable.

The standards cover a wide range of forestry activities, including harvesting, replanting, and protecting waterways and wildlife habitats.

The program also includes chain-of-custody certification, which tracks the sourcing of forest-based products from certified lands through production and manufacturing to the final product, ensuring that the products are derived from responsibly managed forests.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Comprehensive approach to promoting sustainable forest management in North America.
  • Encompasses a wide range of forestry activities and including chain-of-custody certification.
  • Widely recognized in the forestry sector
Weaknesses:
  • Critics argue that it's too closely aligned with the interests of the forestry industry, which might lead to conflicts of interest and less stringent enforcement of standards.
  • Concerns about the effectiveness of its monitoring and compliance mechanisms, particularly in ensuring that the high standards it sets are consistently met across all certified operations.
Label
TFT Tropical Forest Trust / Earthworm
Relevancy for consumer: Medium - More confidential certification of forest sourced products including also hands-on engagement from the non-profit in charge of this label.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Furniture, Home Decor, Packaging & Paper Products, Packaging & Paper Products, Books, , Timber
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Previously known as the Tropical Forest Trust, Earthworm Foundation is a non-profit focuses on improving the sustainability of global supply chains in relation to forests and tropical wood products.

It works with companies to responsibly source materials like timber, palm oil, and pulp & paper, ensuring they are produced in an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible manner.

This involves not just certification but also hands-on engagement with suppliers, local communities, and other stakeholders.

While not a certification in the traditional sense, the Earthworm Foundation's work represents a commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical practices in supply chains, especially concerning tropical forests.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Involves not just certification but aslso hand-on engagement with suppliers, local communities and other stakeholders.
Weaknesses:
  • Unknown
Label
1% for the Planet
Relevancy for consumer: Low - Very well known but a high greenwashing risk
Topics: Environment, FairTrade
Product Categories: Clothing, Shoes, Textiles, Furniture, Others
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

1% for the Planet, founded in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard of Patagonia and Craig Mathews of Blue Ribbon Flies, is a global organization that drives environmental support from businesses and individuals.

Members pledge to donate at least 1% of their annual sales to environmental non-profits, which may include financial, in-kind, and promotional support.

The organization aims to enhance corporate responsibility and connect companies with environmental causes.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Global influence
  • Flexible standards regarding sustainability that can adapt to different industries
  • Broad-based participation
Weaknesses:
  • Greenwashing risk as focus is on financial contributions rather than making substantial operational changes towards sustainability.
  • Lack of specific environmental standards questions true companies' commitment to environmental practices.
  • Membership doesn't guarantee that a business's products are eco-friendly.
  • Risk of consumers misunderstanding perceiving the certification as a comprehensive endorsement of a company's environmental practices rather than a specific financial commitment.
Label
Green Way
Relevancy for consumer: Low - Not very well known certifications for panels and furniture made from wood particules.
Topics: Environment, Health
Product Categories: Furniture
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

Green Way labels certifies panels or furniture made of wood particles, that may contain a formaldehyde-based glue, toxic to health, emitting VOCs and contributing to indoor air pollution. The label guarantees low formaldehyde emissions from furniture or panels made from wood sourced from sustainably managed forests and their safe use.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Unknown
Weaknesses:
  • Limited recognition on the market
Label
Haute Valeur Environnementale - HVE
Relevancy for consumer: Low - Niche agriculture certification from France with a focus on outcomes rather than agricultural practices themselves.
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: France
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Description

French environmental certification system for agriculture, promoting sustainable farming practices by assessing and recognizing farms that prioritize biodiversity, reduce chemical inputs, and minimize their environmental impact.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Certification has three levels, allowing farmers to progressively improve their environmental practices.
Weaknesses:
  • Primarily recognized in France
  • HVE primarily assesses the environmental outcomes of farming practices rather than the specific practices themselves. This means that farms may achieve certification without adhering to specific sustainable practices
  • Do not address broader social or economic sustainability issues.
Label
One voice
Relevancy for consumer: Low - Confidential animal-welfare certification with limited reach
Topics: Animal Welfare
Product Categories: Cleaning Products, Cosmetics, Clothing, Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

The One Voice certification is a French label that guarantees that a product do not involve any animal suffering.

The certification covers various domains such as cosmetics, fashion, food, entertainment, and tourism and look at criteria such as: products should not contain any animal-derived ingredients or materials, are not tested on animals at any stage of their development or production, do not exploit or harm animals in any way, respect the environment and human health.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • Wide array of products covered
Weaknesses:
  • Unknown
Label
UTZ Certified
Relevancy for consumer: Low - NA
Topics: Environment
Product Categories: Food
Geographical Scope: World
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Description

UTZ Certified was a sustainability certification program for agricultural products, primarily focused on coffee, cocoa, and tea. It aimed to promote responsible and sustainable farming practices by setting standards for environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability.

In 2019, UTZ Certified merged with the Rainforest Alliance to create a unified certification program known as the Rainforest Alliance.

Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths:
  • NA
Weaknesses:
  • NA
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