National framework on eco labelling in Sri Lanka

Objectives of this Framework are to provide comprehensive government support to the Eco Labelling schemes encouraging manufactures to green production and consumers towards responsible consumption pattern; and to promote a credible internationally accepted environmental certification and Eco Labelling system and standards in Sri Lanka, encouraging and facilitating green producers to improve environmental product standards; also to minimize green washing of the products and services ensuring the production of substantial eco products and services. Eco Labelling schemes contribute globally to transform consumption and production patterns into sustainable. It supports delinking economic growth and environmental degradation which is the ultimate intention of Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP). Eco label is a type of environmental labels and one of the tools used widely in promoting ecofriendly products conveying the message to producers and consumers regarding the overall environmental performance of products and services based on life cycle considerations. Eco Labels are advantageous in variety of ways such as providing consumers with more information about the environmental effects of their consumption, encouraging producers, governments and other agents to increase the environmental standards of products/services. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has created standards for labelling practices in ISO 14000 series. Three standards are providing the guidance for three types of Eco Labels namely ISO 14024 (Type I), ISO 14021 (Type II) and ISO 14025 (Type III).