ISM AND ISEG MBA - Développement durable

environmental impact of a product? He does not know what to buy and what to avoid. Could it be
that the manufacturer is spreading confusion by selectively promoting certain environmental
attributes to the detriment of others?
This begs the question: how should one assess the validity of a statement concerning the
environmental impact of a product?
The need for rules governing eco-labeling has led to concerted efforts to develop labeling
protocols and standards worthy of public trust.
Both government and the private sector have become involved in eco-labeling programs.
Government involvement in eco-labeling schemes can improve the economic stability of the
program, its legal protection and its credibility in the eyes of manufacturers and consumers. It
can also provide more dependable, long-term resources, overcome high start-up and compliance
monitoring costs, thus allowing for greater participation. It can furthermore allow the
incorporation of international standards, provide better accountability and technical expertise, and
ensure public involvement in setting new standards.
But corporate involvement in eco-labeling schemes is also an important prerequisite, especially in
private-sector programs. They may be correspondingly less vulnerable to shifting political
priorities and budget constraints. They may also be able to set more stringent standards than
government agencies in some product sectors, since they do not have to take into account the
impact of employment. And finally, there are effective means of pressurizing overseas companies
to comply with environmental regulations.
The credibility of these labels is extremely important. It is essential that the bodies which assign
eco-labels are properly accredited. Their task is to enforce discipline in eco-labeling programs,
and they should consequently be above suspicion. They may have to disclose their finances,
evaluation criteria, standard settings and monitoring procedures in order to ensure trust. These
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