- Aim/Focus
- Standard organisation
- Good to know
Credibility 79%
-
Availability of Scheme Structure
-
Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
-
Availability of Standard
-
Public Consultation of Standard
-
Standard Review
-
Consistent interpretation of the standard
-
Procedure on Remediation
-
CAB Complaints Mechanism
-
Defined Duration of Certificate / License
-
Scheme Legal Status
-
Level of Conformity Assessment
-
Claims Policy
-
Sources of Finance
-
Standard-Setting Process
-
Stakeholder feedback
-
Assessment Methodology
-
Accredited/Approved CABs
-
Clarity of claims
-
Scheme Management
-
Governance
-
Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
-
Is the scheme owner a legal entity, or an organization that is a partnership of legal entities, or a government or inter-governmental agency?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Is there a mechanism by which the top decision-making body members are accountable to all stakeholders?
Possible answers
- Yes available publicly (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- No (0 points)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/blue-angel/who-is-behind-it/the-evironmental-label-jury The Environmental Label Jury The independent decision-making body The jury decides which product groups and service sectors should be awarded the Blue Angel. In addition, it discusses and ratifies the respective award criteria developed by the German Environment Agency. The members of the jury are independent and impartial. Membership of the jury is carried out on a voluntary and non-salaried basis. Members of the Environmental Label Jury The jury consists of 16 natural persons who are appointed by the Federal Environment Minister. 14 members of the jury are appointed for a period of three years in agreement with the Chairman of the German Conference of Environment Ministers (UMK). The jury involves all relevant social groups and includes representatives from environmental and consumer associations, as well as those from trade and industry. Two other members of the jury are representatives of the German federal states. One state representative is taken from the environment ministry of the state that currently holds the position of chairman of the UMK. The second is taken from the state that previously held the position of chairman of the UMK. In contrast to the other members, these state representatives are only appointed for a period of two years. The jury meets at least twice a year at their scheduled meetings. In between these meetings, the chairman represents the jury at events and discussions. In the first meeting for the relevant term of office, the jury elects a chairman from amongst the Environmental Label Jury and decides on their work programme for their term of office. The jury will generally refrain from using airplanes when travelling to the meetings or other Blue Angel events within Germany.
-
Do the voting procedures of the top decision-making body ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests, where no single interest predominates?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/blue-angel/who-is-behind-it/the-evironmental-label-jury The Environmental Label Jury The independent decision-making body The jury decides which product groups and service sectors should be awarded the Blue Angel. In addition, it discusses and ratifies the respective award criteria developed by the German Environment Agency. The members of the jury are independent and impartial. Membership of the jury is carried out on a voluntary and non-salaried basis. Members of the Environmental Label Jury The jury consists of 16 natural persons who are appointed by the Federal Environment Minister. 14 members of the jury are appointed for a period of three years in agreement with the Chairman of the German Conference of Environment Ministers (UMK). The jury involves all relevant social groups and includes representatives from environmental and consumer associations, as well as those from trade and industry. Two other members of the jury are representatives of the German federal states. One state representative is taken from the environment ministry of the state that currently holds the position of chairman of the UMK. The second is taken from the state that previously held the position of chairman of the UMK. In contrast to the other members, these state representatives are only appointed for a period of two years. The jury meets at least twice a year at their scheduled meetings. In between these meetings, the chairman represents the jury at events and discussions. In the first meeting for the relevant term of office, the jury elects a chairman from amongst the Environmental Label Jury and decides on their work programme for their term of office. The jury will generally refrain from using airplanes when travelling to the meetings or other Blue Angel events within Germany.
-
Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have an internal quality management system available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
Source:
Personal Interview (German Federal Environment Agency (UBA))
-
Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/pages/downloads/submitting-application/englisch-mustervertrag-2020-11-09.pdf scheme owner is public institution, any company can apply and will pay fees based on volume of trade of labelled goods, scheme owner is independent from the applicants. applicants sign contract with the independent auditor (RAL)
-
Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure available?
-
Impact
-
Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
Source:
Published Prosa-Studies: http://www.prosa.org/index.php?id=413 http://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/umweltbewusstsein-in-deutschland-2012
-
Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
e.g. in the strategy paper: https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/pages/downloads/environmental-label-jury/anlage2-strategiepapier.pdf
-
Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
-
Supporting Strategies
-
Does the scheme provide access to technical assistance for compliance with the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme provide access to technical assistance beyond compliance with the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme provide access to finance for enterprises seeking certification?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme provide access to technical assistance for compliance with the standard?
-
Governance
-
Standard-Setting
-
Is the standard made available free of charge?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/companies/basic-award-criteria on website a complete list of all standards, including download of stanard in pdf format
-
Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/publication/be-factsheet-prinzipien-eng-rz_0.pdf In the evaluation process, the Blue Angel takes a holistic view of the life cycle of the product and identifies all important areas relevant to the environment in which environmental pollution could be significantly reduced or even avoided. The Blue Angel focuses on the following key areas here: •resource-conserving production (water, energy) •preferential consideration of recycled materials e.g. for paper and plastic •sustainable products made out of raw materials •the avoidance of pollutants in products •reduced emissions of harmful substances into the soil, air, water and indoor spaces •reduction in noise and electromagnetic radiation •efficient use and products that use a low level of energy or water •durability, reparability and recyclability •good fitness for use •return systems and services that enable the common use of products such as car sharing Newer Basic Award Criteria for the environmental label also include social aspects related to the manufacturing conditions, e.g. observance of the ILO fundamental labor standards.
-
Are the standard-setting procedures or a public summary of how stakeholders can engage made available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
-
Which stakeholders can participate in the standard-setting process?
Possible answers
- Members only (1 point)
- Invitation only (1 point)
- All stakeholders (2 points)
-
Are stakeholders who are directly affected by the standard provided opportunities to participate in standard setting?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability during the development process?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner provide information on how the input received from consultations has been included in the final version of the standard?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
Source:
Personal Interview (German Federal Environment Agency (UBA))
-
Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner have a complaints mechanism for the standard-setting process?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes, publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
Source:
Personal Interview (German Federal Environment Agency (UBA))
-
Is the standard made available free of charge?
-
Assurance
-
Assurance System
-
Is there a documented assessment methodology for CABs to assess compliance with the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/blue-angel/who-is-behind-it Tester: RAL gGmbH As an independent organisation, RAL gGmbH (a non-profit private limited company) checks compliance with the requirements after the submission of the product-specific application by a company and concludes contracts on the use of the Blue Angel with the companies.
-
Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
There are no restrictions on who can apply for the standard. The product or service must fall within the respective scope of the standard and comply with all requirements that are in the award criteria. https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/pages/downloads/submitting-application/how-do-i-get-blue-angel.pdf
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to have an assessment fee schedule?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly avilable (2 points)
Source:
when enrolling in the scheme, an applicant pays for the "conformity assessment" (by RAL) and use of label. the fees are listed in https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/pages/downloads/costs-blue-angel/schedule-fees/contribution-scheme-environmental-label-07-2017-en.pdf
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to have a documented complaints mechanism in place for compliance decisions?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner make, or require CABs to make, summary certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
Possible answers
- No (no reports) (0 points)
- Confidential (1 point)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
-
Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner maintain or require CABs to maintain a publicly accessible list of certified or verified enterprises, or a list of verified products/product groups, or a list of members (in case of membership-based initiatives)?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner maintain a list of all accredited/approved CABs?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes (publicly) (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner review their assurance system on a periodic basis?
Possible answers
- Annual (1 point)
- Every 3 years (1 point)
- Every 5 years (1 point)
- Ad hoc (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
(changes in assurance system are resulting in changes in the standards criteria, which are reviewed in fixed years) https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/general_information_on_the_term_of_validity_of_the_basic_award_criteria.pdf General information on the term of validity of the Basic Award Criteria Validity of the Basic Award Criteria / contracts The Basic Award Criteria are always agreed for a limited period of time by the Environmental Label Jury. The term of validity for each Basic Award Criteria is generally 3 - 5 years. This term of validity is stated in the “Sample Contract” for the relevant Basic Award Criteria in the last section (generally section 5 or 6). Contracts on the use of the environmental label are exclusively concluded for the term ofvalidity of the relevant Basic Award Criteria.However, they can be extended subject to a reso-lution by the Environmental Label Jury. The term of the contract/contracts on the use of the environmental label also ends when the term of validity for the relevant Basic Award Criteria has expired. Termination of contracts by RAL gGmbH Valid contracts on the use of the environmental label are terminated in writing by RAL gGmbH at the latest by 31 March of the year in which the term of validity expires. The notification about the termination of the contract on the use of the environmental label is sent to the manage-ment of the contractual partner (label holder). If the relevant Basic Award Criteria are not completely withdrawn due to a resolution by the Environmental Label Jury, two editions of the Basic Award Criteria for a product group will be published in parallel on the Blue Angel Website in the final year of the original term of validity: •a “new” edition with a term of validity of between 3-5 years and •a still valid (“old”) edition whose term of validity expires in the year of termination. The label holder is thus able to submit a new application based on the new edition in good time to ensure the transitionless labelling of the products/services with the Blue Angel. New application for extending the use of the Blue Angel A new application can only be submitted in accordance with the new edition of the Basic Award Criteria and only with the new annexes to the contract; i.e. any old annexes to the contract become invalid and cannot be used for a new application. New applications or changes will only be accepted online via the WEB PORTALfrom 1 July 2020. Licence holders who have not yet registered should thus register via the Web Portal in the next few weeks. Further information and a guide to using the WEB PORTAL can be found at:https://portal.ral-umwelt.de/. Extending the term of validity of the Basic Award Criteria The Environmental Label Jury can also extend the term of validity of the relevant Basic Award Criteria. The new term of validity will be published on the Blue Angel website and will also be stated in the Basic Award Criteria. If the term of validity is extended before the regular, written termination of the contracts on the use of the environmental label, no notification of termination is sent and the contracts are au-tomatically extended by the new term of validity. It is also possible that the Environmental Label Jury can extend the term of validity multiple times. If the term of validity is extended after the regular, written notification of termination has been sent, the contract is effectively terminated. The label holder will then be sent a written offer to accept the extended term of validity.The offer to accept the extension to the term of validity is sent to the management of the con-tractual partner (label holder). The contract does not need to be terminated again in this case.
-
Does the scheme owner allow partial certification by an enterprise, with requirements to increase the percentage of certified produce over time?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for CABs that are assessing chain of custody?
Possible answers
- yes publicly available (2 points)
- yes available on request (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Is there a documented assessment methodology for CABs to assess compliance with the standard?
-
Conformity Assessment
-
Conformity Assessment Process
-
What is the most independent type of conformity assessment required by the scheme?
Possible answers
- 1st party (0 points)
- 2nd party (0 points)
- 3rd party (1 point)
- (0 points)
- (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner define guidelines for decision-making to ensure that CABs use consistent procedures for determining compliance of clients with the standard?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
Source:
the auditor checks the annexes, if standard is met, it leads to contracting and certification
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to have a procedure in place for how clients are required to address non-conformities, including when a certificate or license is suspended or revoked?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
What is the most independent type of conformity assessment required by the scheme?
-
Sustainability Audits
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020 or equivalent?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
At least how often do clients undergo a full audit process?
Possible answers
- 1 year or less (2 points)
- 1-2 years (2 points)
- 2-3 years (2 points)
- 4-5 years (1 point)
- 5 years or more (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Is the frequency of an audit based in part on a risk assessment of the client?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
What type of activities are CABs required to undertake during a full audit?
Possible answers
- Document review (off-site) only (1 point)
- Document review on-site (1 point)
- Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review) (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
audit activities may differ, depending on the product catagory. for most products laboratory tests are required, though samples can be taken by the applicant and sent to independent (accredited) laboratories, without need of RAL auditor to visit the production site bais (minimum) procedure is: The applicant sends the filled out annexes, providing all evidence from self declaration and independent laboratories RAL checks the application with all annexes If application meets the standards requirements, the contract is signed, and applicant can use label
-
Does the scheme owner allow or require CABs to do unscheduled audits?
Possible answers
- Allowed (1 point)
- Required (2 points)
- Not allowed (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Are auditors required to solicit external stakeholder input during the audit process?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to follow a consistent report format?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
for each standard, a number of annexes are provided by the applicant these annexes form the "audit report"
-
Are the people making the compliance decision different from those engaged in the audit process?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme allow for group certification or verification?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020 or equivalent?
-
Group Certification
-
Is the group required to have an internal management system?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is there a requirement that at least all group sites are visited during the period of validity of the certificate?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is there a sample size formula to determine the number of group members that is externally verified?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Yes based on risk assessment (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Do the requirements on group certification/verification define the conditions under which a group member shall be suspended or removed from a group?
Possible answers
- Member suspended from certification (1 point)
- Member removed from a group (0 points)
- Group suspension (0 points)
- No repercussion (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is the group required to have an internal management system?
-
Chain of Custody
-
Does the scheme owner require CoC CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17021, or ISO/IEC 17065 or equivalent?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
What is the most independent type of CoC conformity assessment required by the scheme?
Possible answers
- 1st party (1 point)
- 2nd party (1 point)
- 3rd party (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
What type of activities are CoC CABs required to undertake during a full CoC assessment?
Possible answers
- Document review (off-site) only (1 point)
- Document review on-site (1 point)
- Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review) (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner require CoC CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17021, or ISO/IEC 17065 or equivalent?
-
Laboratory Testing
-
In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require laboratories to be accredited according to recognized laboratory accreditation standards?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes to ISO 17025 (2 points)
- Yes to other recognized standards (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the compliance monitoring?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (1 point)
-
Is there a procedure to deal with non-compliant products manufactured by a client / licensee?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
(info from ral/uba) (non compliant products cannot be marketed with the label ?)
-
In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
-
Conformity Assessment Process
-
Auditor Competencies
-
Does the scheme owner define specific qualifications and competencies for CAB auditors?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors successfully complete training on the standard and its interpretation?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors successfully complete auditor training based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that new auditors have a probationary period where their competence in an audit is assessed or supervised?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors are evaluated at least every 3 years?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have or require that CABs have a continuing professional development program in place?
Possible answers
- Annually (0 points)
- Ad Hoc (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner require that there are repercussions such as probation or suspension for the misconduct or poor performance of CAB personnel?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner define specific qualifications and competencies for CAB auditors?
-
Accreditation / Oversight
-
Does the scheme require a documented accreditation or oversight mechanism?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require ISO 17011 compliance for ABs?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Is the accreditation or oversight body independent from the scheme owner?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
BMUB and RAL are no separate legal entities.
-
How often do assurance providers undergo a full accreditation or oversight assessment?
Possible answers
- <1 year (2 points)
- 1 year (2 points)
- 2-3 years (2 points)
- 4-5 years (1 point)
- >5 years (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
- None (0 points)
-
Is the frequency of an accreditation or oversight assessment based in part on a risk assessment of the client?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Does the scheme owner ensure that all CABs are free to apply to operate under the scheme, irrespective of their country of residence, size and of the existing number of providers already operating under the scheme?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner accept CABs that are accredited/accepted by ABs to similar or generic scopes (proxy accreditation)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Yes assess scheme-specific competence (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to have a documented complaints mechanism in place for compliance decisions?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to have a procedure in place for how CABs are required to address non-conformities using a corrective action process?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to make summary accreditation/oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner ensure that the accreditation or oversight assessment includes an on-site assessment of the CAB?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner ensure that the accreditation or oversight process includes a review of the performance of CABs and auditors in the field?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme require a documented accreditation or oversight mechanism?
-
Assurance System
-
Claims & Traceability
-
Traceability
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner require CABs to verify that all enterprises within the chain maintain accurate and accessible records that allow any certified product or batch of products to be traceable from the point of sale to the buyer?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements?
-
Claims & Labelling
-
Does the scheme owner make documented requirements governing the use of symbols, logos and claims available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/sidebar/downloads/be-logo-leitfaden-en.pdf https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/products/company (all certified companies) https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/products_A-Z (all certified products)
-
Do claims and labelling requirements ensure that claims or logos clearly indicate to what they apply?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Do claims requirements specify the types of claims that can be made for different types of CoC models, where the scheme owner allows for more than one model?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
-
Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
https://www.blauer-engel.de/en/blue-angel/faqs-consumers RAL does not conclude the Contract on the Use of the Environmental label before consulting the respective State Ministry for the Environment and before reviewing the submitted documents for correctness and completeness and the results of the testing laboratories. In the event of misuse of the Blue Angel a warning letter will be sent to the label user and in the event of breach of the Basic Award Criteria the eco-label can be withdrawn. In the past, cases of misuse have been quickly discovered and stopped.
-
Does the scheme require different claims depending on the percentage of certified / verified content in a product?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
What is the minimum percentage of a certified / verified input in a single ingredient product for a claim to be allowed for that product?
Possible answers
- 0-49% (1 point)
- 50-74% (1 point)
- 75-94% (2 points)
- 95-100% (2 points)
- Not specified (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
What is the minimum percentage of certified / verified material in a composite product for a claim to be allowed for that product?
Possible answers
- 0-20% (1 point)
- 21-50% (1 point)
- 51-74% (2 points)
- 75-100% (2 points)
- Not specified (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
not applicable
-
Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
Source:
BLUE ANGEL Logo Guidelines 5 Using the BLUE ANGEL logo on your certified products The official depiction of the Blue Angel logo – as defined in the contract on the use of the environmental label – must be used and it is not permitted to make any changes. It is only permitted to use the BLUE ANGEL logo in combination with a short link, which displays the BLUE ANGEL website and the number of the Basic Award Criteria (UZ number). Instead of the short link, an explanatory box can be optionally used that de-scribes the most important advantages for the environment and health offered by the relevant Basic Award Criteria. This additional information highlights the advantages of the certified product in comparison to other products and thus supports consumers in their purchasing decision. https://www.blauer-engel.de/sites/default/files/sidebar/downloads/be-logo-leitfaden-en.pdf
-
Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
Source:
see contract for the use of Blue Angel
-
Does the scheme owner make documented requirements governing the use of symbols, logos and claims available?
-
Traceability
Environment 60%
-
Criteria on chemicals harmful to human health
-
Criteria on Use of Chlorine Gas
-
Criteria on Use of Azo Dyes
-
Use of Natural Fibres
-
Chemicals
-
Chemical Use
-
Does the standard include criteria on chemical use?
Possible answers
- Basic: Document use of all chemicals (1 point)
- Advanced: Increase efficiency/reduce chemical use (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.5 Further requirements for production aids and paper refining agents, exclusion of glyoxal Only those production aids and paper refining agents that are listed in Recommendation XXXVI from the BfR for “Paper and board for food contact”5 (positive list) in sections B (production aids) and C (special paper refining agents) may be added to the product. The maximum quantities and concentrations stated in this list must be observed. No production aids containing glyoxal may be used to manufacture the recycled paper. Compliance verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 to the contract. The applicant shall verify compliance with the requirement by listing the production aids and paper refining agents used and submitting declarations from the suppliers of the production aids and paper refining agents in accordance with Annex 3 to the contract pursuant to DE-UZ 14a. If requested to do so by RAL gGmbH, the applicant shall submit the relevant safety data sheets.
Referenzdokumente:
3.5 Further requirements for production aids and paper refining agents, exclusion of glyoxal ........................................................................................................................ 12
-
Does the standard include criteria on chemicals listed on the REACH Candidate List as substances of very high concern?
Possible answers
- Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations. (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.4 General exclusion of substances with certain properties No substances or mixtures may be added as colourants, coating materials, production aids and paper refining agents that contain constituent components with the following properties: a) It is prohibited to add substances of very high concern (SVHC) that have been identified as being particularly alarming in accordance with Article 57, Paragraph 1 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH) and added to the so-called “candidate list” according to Article 59, Paragraph 1 of the same regulation.
Referenzdokumente:
3.4 General exclusion of substances with certain properties .......................................... 10
-
Does the standard include criteria on H statements H400, H410, H411?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on H statements?
Possible answers
- Basic: Prohibit use for some applications (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use for H statements as well as additional H statements for all applications (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.4 General exclusion of substances with certain properties No substances or mixtures may be added as colourants, coating materials, production aids and paper refining agents that contain constituent components with the following properties: a) It is prohibited to add substances of very high concern (SVHC) that have been identified as being particularly alarming in accordance with Article 57, Paragraph 1 of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (REACH) and added to the so-called “candidate list” according to Article 59, Paragraph 1 of the same regulation. b) No substances may be added to the product that according to the criteria of Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 are classified with the following H Phrases named in Table 1 or which meet the criteria for such classification. or which are classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic substances in the currently valid version of TRGS 905 Table 1: H Phrases according to the CLP Regulation H Phrases according to the CLP Regulation Wording H340 May cause genetic defects. H341 Suspected of causing genetic defects. H350 May cause cancer. H350i May cause cancer if inhaled. H3514 Suspected of causing cancer. H360F May damage fertility. H360D May damage the unborn child. H360FD May damage fertility. May damage the unborn child. H360Fd May damage fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn child. H360Df May damage the unborn child. Suspected of damaging fertility. H361f Suspected of damaging fertility. H361d Suspected of damaging the unborn child. H361fd Suspected of damaging fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn child.
Referenzdokumente:
3.4 General exclusion of substances with certain properties .......................................... 10
-
Does the standard include criteria on biodegredability of substances?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.6 Bleaching and complexing agents The recovered paper must be processed without the use of chlorine, halogenated bleaching agents and not readily biodegradable complexing agents such as e.g. ehylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA).
Referenzdokumente:
3.6 Bleaching and complexing agents ......................................................................... 12
-
Does the standard include a list of substances which are of low concern for the intended use?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.5 Further requirements for production aids and paper refining agents, exclusion of glyoxal Only those production aids and paper refining agents that are listed in Recommendation XXXVI from the BfR for “Paper and board for food contact”5 (positive list) in sections B (production aids) and C (special paper refining agents) may be added to the product. The maximum quantities and concentrations stated in this list must be observed. No production aids containing glyoxal may be used to manufacture the recycled paper. Compliance verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 to the contract. The applicant shall verify compliance with the requirement by listing the production aids and paper refining agents used and submitting declarations from the suppliers of the production aids and paper refining agents in accordance with Annex 3 to the contract pursuant to DE-UZ 14a. If requested to do so by RAL gGmbH, the applicant shall submit the relevant safety data sheets. 3.9 Optical brighteners The use of optical brighteners is not permitted. An exception applies for the production of: • SC papers > 110 g/m2 and HWC papers > 75g/m² (according to Appendix B) The following optical brighteners may be added to these products: • C.I.220, benzenesulfonic acid, 2,2'-(1,2-ethenediyl) bis[5[4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl) amino]-6-[(4-sulfophenyl)amino]- 1,3,5-triazin-2-yl]amino]-, tetra sodium salt (CAS no. 16470-24-9); • C.I. 113 or C.I. 28 disodium salt 4,4'-bis[6-anilino-4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl]amino]stilbene-2,2'-disulphonate; sulfonated stilbene derivatives may be used up to a maximum level of 0.3%. • Tetrasodium 4,4'-{ethene-1,2-diylbis[(3-sulfonato-4,1-phenylene)imino{6-[bis(2-hydroxy-ethyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazine-4,2-diyl}imino]}dibenzoate (CAS RN 32257-57-1) and isomeric mixtures of Tetrasodium 4,4'-{ethene-1,2-diylbis[(3-sulfonato-4,1-phenylene)-imino{6-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazine-4,2-diyl}imino]}dibenzoate (CAS-RN 32257-57-1), Tetrasodium 2,2'-{ethene-1,2-diylbis[(3-sulfonatobenzene-4,1-diyl)imino{6-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazine-4,2-diyl}imino]}dibenzoate (CAS RN 158256-89-4) and Tetrasodium 2-({4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-6-[(4-{2-[4-({4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-amino]-6-[(4-carboxylatophenyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl}amino)-2-sulfonatophenyl]- 14/28 DE-UZ 14a Edition January 2020 ethenyl}-3-sulfonatophenyl)amino]-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl}amino)benzoate (CAS no. 1271742-13-2) • C.I.397 (benzenesulfonic acid, 2,2‘-(1,2-ethenediyl)bis[5-amino-, reaction products with aniline, diethanolamine, ethanolamine and 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine, sodium salts, 2-(Dimethylamino) ethanol compounds (CAS no. 1627851-12-0) Compliance verification The applicant shall state the grade of manufactured paper based on the grade statistics (according to Appendix B) in Annex 2 to the contract and name the optical brighteners used. In addition, the applicant shall verify compliance with the requirement by submitting a test report from an independent testing institute certifying compliance with the bleeding test according to DIN EN 648 or DIN EN 646 and achievement of valuation level 5. Alternatively, the applicant shall submit a declaration from the manufacturer of the optical brightener as Annex 3 to the contract stating that at least 95% of the optical brighteners cling to the substrate to be brightened.
Referenzdokumente:
3.5 Further requirements for production aids and paper refining agents, exclusion of glyoxal ..................................... 12 3.9 Optical brighteners ............................................................................................. 13
-
Does the standard include criteria on testing the final product regarding residues of chemicals?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.2 Diisopropylnaphtaline (DIPN) The content of diisopropylnaphthalene (DIPN) in paper and cardboard should be kept as low as technically possible. It is thus generally not permitted to use the grades of recovered paper 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 “carbonless copy paper (NCR)”. Alternatively, grades of recovered paper containing DIPN (2.05.00, 2.05.01, 2.06.00, 2.06.01 and 5.09.00) may be used if an efficient technical system (e.g. deinking) exists that largely removes the DIPN from the fibre cycle and the DIPN content in the finished paper does not exceed a maximum of 50 mg/kg. Compliance verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirements in Annex 1 to the contract. If the grades of recovered paper 2.05.00, 2.05.01, 2.06.00, 2.06.01 and 5.09.00 have been used, the applicant shall state the maximum DIPN content in the finished product in Annex 2 to the contract and submit a test report from an independent testing institution accredited according to ISO 17025 or a selected testing institution recognised by the UBA e.g. Chair of Paper Technology and Mechanical Process Engineering (PMV) at TU Darmstadt. The DIPN content shall be determined once a year in accordance with EN 14719 (DIPN in acetone extract). The applicant shall submit a product sample. 3.3 Bisphenol A and bisphenol S The content of bisphenol A and bisphenol S in the finished paper must be determined once a year. Compliance verification The content of bisphenol A (CAS 80-05-7) and bisphenol S (CAS 80-09-1) must be determined in a cold water extract prepared according to EN 645 using liquid chromatography with UV/fluorescence detection or MS detection. The applicant shall submit a test report for statistical purposes once a year from an independent testing institution accredited according to ISO 17025 or a testing institution recognised by the UBA. If multiple products are produced based on the same composition of recovered paper (Annex 2), it is sufficient to submit an analysis of a sample of the paper once a year.
Referenzdokumente:
3.2 Diisopropylnaphtaline (DIPN) ............................................................................... 10 3.3 Bisphenol A and bisphenol S ................................................................................ 10
-
Does the standard include criteria on the use of dyes or pigments based on lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, cobalt and aluminium in the production phase?
Possible answers
- basic (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on the use of chlorine gas, elemental chlorine, chloroorganic compounds as bleaching agent?
Possible answers
- Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.6 Bleaching and complexing agents The recovered paper must be processed without the use of chlorine, halogenated bleaching agents and not readily biodegradable complexing agents such as e.g. ehylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). Compliance verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirement in Annex 1 to the contract and also state the bleaching chemicals and complexing agents used in Annex 2.
Referenzdokumente:
3.6 Bleaching and complexing agents ......................................................................... 12
-
Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of azo dyes that may cleave aromatic amines which are harmful to human health in the production phase?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.10 Azo dyes and pigments in colourants No azo dyes or pigments may be added in colourants that can cleave into one of the amines stated in Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006, Annex XVII, No. 43, Appendix 8 or 9, or in TRGS 6146 (see Appendix D). Compliance verification The applicant shall verify compliance with the requirement by submitting Annex 3 to the contract according to DE-UZ 14a. Anhang D Dyes and pigments that are not permitted In accordance with Paragraph 3.10, the azo dyes listed below may not be added. Azo dyes that may cleave to one of the following aromatic amines (according to Directive (EC) No. 1907/2007, Annex XVII, No. 43) 4-aminobiphenyl (92-67-1) benzidine (92-87-5) (....)
Referenzdokumente:
3.10 Azo dyes and pigments in colourants .................................................................... 14 Anhang D Dyes and pigments that are not permitted ................................................... 27
-
Does the standard include criteria on chemical use?
-
Handling of Chemicals
-
Does the standard include criteria on storage and labelling of chemicals?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on selective and targeted application of chemicals?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on training on chemicals handling and exposure?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on storage and labelling of chemicals?
-
Chemical Use
-
Water
-
Water Use
-
Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper The paper fibres in the recycled graphic paper must have been sourced 100% from recovered paper. Recovered paper is the umbrella term for paper and paperboard that is collected after use or processing.
Referenzdokumente:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper ...................................... 8
-
Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
-
Wastewater
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater quality and wastewater treatment?
Possible answers
- Basic: Treat wastewater (1 point)
- Advanced: Treat wastewater with parameters defined to ensure appropriate quality of wastewater (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.14 Requirements for waste water The following requirements apply with respect to waste water: 3.14.1 Direct discharge In the production of recycled paper, the emission limits for the waste water load that are listed by the EU Commission in the “Best Available Techniques (BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Pulp, Paper and Board” must be complied with by direct dischargers. These limits are also listed in Table 2 below: in the paper production process Parameter Lower reference value according to BREF and Appendix 28 of the German Waste Water Ordinance8 Volumetric flow rate of waste water 15 m3/Adt COD 3 kg/Adt BSB5 0.15 kg/Adt or 25 mg/l AOX < 0.01 kg/Adt Total N (inorganic + organic N) (TNb) 0.07 kg/Adt or 15 mg/l Total P 0.008 kg/Adt or 1.2 mg/l Adt = air dried ton TNb = total nitrogen bound. This parameter defines the total pollution of water by nitrogen compounds, which can appear in the form of e.g. ammonia, nitrites, nitrates or organic nitrogen compounds. A suitable method for determining this parameter is DIN EN 12260. 3.14.2 Indirect discharge Indirect dischargers must declare compliance with the emission limits for the parameters stated in Table 2 after treatment. Compliance verification If the manufacturer of the recycled paper is a direct discharger, he/she shall declare compliance with the emission limits according to Table 2 in Annex 1 to the contract and state the measured emission values in Annex 4 to the contract. If the manufacturer of the recycled paper is an indirect discharger, he/she shall declare: • compliance with the emission limits according to Table 2 after treatment in the waste water treatment plant and • compliance with the limit for the volumetric flow rate of waste water and • compliance with the AOX value at the mixing location in Annex 1 to the contract and shall submit confirmation from the operator of the waste water treatment plant that provided the emission values for the other parameters in the downstream waste water treatment plant as Annex 5 to the contract.
Referenzdokumente:
3.14 Requirements for waste water.............................................................................. 15 3.14.1 Direct discharge .............................................................................................. 15 3.14.2 Indirect discharge ........................................................................................... 16
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater volumes (per unit of production)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.14 Requirements for waste water The following requirements apply with respect to waste water: 3.14.1 Direct discharge In the production of recycled paper, the emission limits for the waste water load that are listed by the EU Commission in the “Best Available Techniques (BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Pulp, Paper and Board” must be complied with by direct dischargers. These limits are also listed in Table 2 below: Table 2: Maximum limits for the average annual emission parameters (waste water) in the paper production process Parameter Lower reference value according to BREF and Appendix 28 of the German Waste Water Ordinance(8) Volumetric flow rate of waste water 15 m3/Adt (8)Appendix 28 Production of paper and cardboard of the German Waste Water Ordinance: https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/abwv/anhang_28.html)
Referenzdokumente:
3.14 Requirements for waste water.............................................................................. 15 3.14.1 Direct discharge .............................................................................................. 15 3.14.2 Indirect discharge ........................................................................................... 16
-
Does the standard include threshold values on wastewater parameter of COD and P?
Possible answers
- Basic: Some of these parameters are covered (1 point)
- Advanced: All of these parameters are covered (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.14 Requirements for waste water The following requirements apply with respect to waste water: 3.14.1 Direct discharge In the production of recycled paper, the emission limits for the waste water load that are listed by the EU Commission in the “Best Available Techniques (BAT) Reference Document for the Production of Pulp, Paper and Board” must be complied with by direct dischargers. These limits are also listed in Table 2 below: Table 2: Maximum limits for the average annual emission parameters (waste water) in the paper production process Parameter Lower reference value according to BREF and Appendix 28 of the German Waste Water Ordinance(8) COD 3 kg/Adt Total P 0.008 kg/Adt or 1.2 mg/l (8)Appendix 28 Production of paper and cardboard of the German Waste Water Ordinance: https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/abwv/anhang_28.html)
Referenzdokumente:
3.14 Requirements for waste water.............................................................................. 15 3.14.1 Direct discharge .............................................................................................. 15 3.14.2 Indirect discharge ........................................................................................... 16
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater quality and wastewater treatment?
-
Water Use
-
Inputs
-
Does the scheme include criteria on the use of postconsumer recycled content in the product or packaging?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper The paper fibres in the recycled graphic paper must have been sourced 100% from recovered paper. Recovered paper is the umbrella term for paper and paperboard that is collected after use or processing. For the production of the products, a maximum of 35% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – may be sourced from the better grades (group 3) and at least 65% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – must be sourced from the ordinary, medium and kraft paper grades and special grades (groups 1, 2, 4 and 5). If the grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) are used, the product must comply with the requirement according to Paragraph 3.2 (DIPN content). Refer to DIN EN 643 for specifications about the different grades of recovered paper. Compliance verification The applicant shall characterise the paper in Annex 2 by stating the sort key, format, weight, surface treatment (coated or uncoated), whiteness and opacity. The applicant shall state the average percentage of the paper grades from groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 used in the product in Annex 2 to the contract and declare compliance with the requirement in Paragraph 3.1. The applicant shall also state the percentages of the individual grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) in Annex 2. The correctness of the data provided in Annex 2 to the contract shall be verified on request once a year in accordance with Annex 6 to the Basic Award Criteria by: • a certification body for ISO 14001 accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) for the scope of paper manufacturers (NACE 17.12) or • an environmental verifier approved for this scope (NACE 17.12) by the German Society for the Accreditation and Registration of Environmental Verifiers (DAU) in accordance with the Environmental Audit Act or • an accredited FSC/PEFC certifier or • an expert recognised by the UBA in the areas of fibrous raw materials, grades of recovered paper and the recycling of recovered paper.
Referenzdokumente:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper ...................................... 8
-
Fibres
-
Does the standard include criteria on the usage of recycled material?
Possible answers
- Basic: Use of recycled material in packaging (1 point)
- Advanced: Use of recycled material in product (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper The paper fibres in the recycled graphic paper must have been sourced 100% from recovered paper. Recovered paper is the umbrella term for paper and paperboard that is collected after use or processing. For the production of the products, a maximum of 35% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – may be sourced from the better grades (group 3) and at least 65% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – must be sourced from the ordinary, medium and kraft paper grades and special grades (groups 1, 2, 4 and 5). If the grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) are used, the product must comply with the requirement according to Paragraph 3.2 (DIPN content). Refer to DIN EN 643 for specifications about the different grades of recovered paper. Compliance verification The applicant shall characterise the paper in Annex 2 by stating the sort key, format, weight, surface treatment (coated or uncoated), whiteness and opacity. The applicant shall state the average percentage of the paper grades from groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 used in the product in Annex 2 to the contract and declare compliance with the requirement in Paragraph 3.1. The applicant shall also state the percentages of the individual grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) in Annex 2. The correctness of the data provided in Annex 2 to the contract shall be verified on request once a year in accordance with Annex 6 to the Basic Award Criteria by: • a certification body for ISO 14001 accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) for the scope of paper manufacturers (NACE 17.12) or • an environmental verifier approved for this scope (NACE 17.12) by the German Society for the Accreditation and Registration of Environmental Verifiers (DAU) in accordance with the Environmental Audit Act or • an accredited FSC/PEFC certifier or • an expert recognised by the UBA in the areas of fibrous raw materials, grades of recovered paper and the recycling of recovered paper.
Referenzdokumente:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper ...................................... 8
-
Does the standard include criteria on the production of natural fibres?
Possible answers
- Basic: 50% - 69% of certified fibres from sustainable forestry (1 point)
- Advanced: At least 70% of recycled fibres or of certified fibres from sustainable forestry (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper The paper fibres in the recycled graphic paper must have been sourced 100% from recovered paper. Recovered paper is the umbrella term for paper and paperboard that is collected after use or processing. For the production of the products, a maximum of 35% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – may be sourced from the better grades (group 3) and at least 65% of the recovered paper – based on the total content of fibrous raw materials – must be sourced from the ordinary, medium and kraft paper grades and special grades (groups 1, 2, 4 and 5). If the grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) are used, the product must comply with the requirement according to Paragraph 3.2 (DIPN content). Refer to DIN EN 643 for specifications about the different grades of recovered paper. Compliance verification The applicant shall characterise the paper in Annex 2 by stating the sort key, format, weight, surface treatment (coated or uncoated), whiteness and opacity. The applicant shall state the average percentage of the paper grades from groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 used in the product in Annex 2 to the contract and declare compliance with the requirement in Paragraph 3.1. The applicant shall also state the percentages of the individual grades 2.05.00 ordinary sorted office paper, 2.05.01 sorted office paper, 2.06.00 ordinary sorted coloured letters, 2.06.01 sorted coloured letters and 5.09.00 carbonless copy paper (NCR) in Annex 2. The correctness of the data provided in Annex 2 to the contract shall be verified on request once a year in accordance with Annex 6 to the Basic Award Criteria by: • a certification body for ISO 14001 accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) for the scope of paper manufacturers (NACE 17.12) or • an environmental verifier approved for this scope (NACE 17.12) by the German Society for the Accreditation and Registration of Environmental Verifiers (DAU) in accordance with the Environmental Audit Act or • an accredited FSC/PEFC certifier or • an expert recognised by the UBA in the areas of fibrous raw materials, grades of recovered paper and the recycling of recovered paper.
Referenzdokumente:
3.1 Use of fibrous raw materials and grades of recovered paper ...................................... 8
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Does the standard include criteria on the usage of recycled material?
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Does the scheme include criteria on the use of postconsumer recycled content in the product or packaging?
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Energy
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Energy Consumption
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Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Reduce consumption, increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
1.2 Background The use of recovered paper in the production of graphic paper contributes to the preservation of resources, especially ecosystems such as forests, and thus helps to protect species and the climate. The use of recovered paper from household and commercial collections also reduces the amount of waste generated. In a comparison of their impact on ecological systems, those paper products made from recovered paper perform significantly better in terms of their use of resources, waste water load and water and energy consumption than paper products made from virgin fibres that use wood as a source of fibrous raw materials – when the products have comparable performance characteristics. 1.3 Objectives of the environmental label The requirements in these Basic Award Criteria are intended, in particular, to promote the use of lower and medium grades of recovered paper and prevent the use of substances that are not required for technical reasons during production. The use of recycled paper that has been awarded the Blue Angel makes an important contribution to the preservation of resources and the protection of species and the climate. Therefore, the following benefits for the environment and health are stated in the explanatory box: • made from 100% recovered paper • saves energy, water and wood • low level of harmful materials
Referenzdokumente:
1.2 Background ......................................................................................................... 5 1.3 Objectives of the environmental label ..................................................................... 6
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Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
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Energy Consumption
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Waste and Air Pollution
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Waste Management
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Does the standard include criteria on waste management in the production phase?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on safe disposal of hazardous waste?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on waste management in the production phase?
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Air pollution (excl. GHG) and Emmission
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Does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on threshold values of sulphur (S) and NOx emissions to air?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
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Waste Management
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Environmental Management
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Environmental Management
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Does the standard include a general criterion on compliance with all relevant local, regional and national environmental laws and regulations?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria to ensure that relevant and up-to-date permits are held (such as water use rights or land use titles)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on mitigating negative environmental impacts prior to production/operation?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on assessing the environmental risks and impacts of production/operations prior to any significant intensification or expansion of business operations/cultivation and infrastructure?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on stakeholder engagement to achieve environmental targets?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include a general criterion on compliance with all relevant local, regional and national environmental laws and regulations?
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Environmental Management
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Quality
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Does the standard include criteria on the fitness for use of the product for the intended purpose?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
3.15 Fitness for use The fitness for use of the recycled paper must be guaranteed. If relevant DIN standards include technical requirements for individual products, these must be observed in the versions valid at the time of application. This applies to e.g. • Continuous paper: DIN EN 12858 • Envelope paper: DIN 6733 • Paper and board for office purposes: DIN 19307 • Paper for copying purposes: DIN EN 12281 Compliance verification The applicant shall declare compliance with the requirement in Annex 1 to the contract and state the corresponding DIN standard. 3.16 Durability of the paper Office paper and paper used for the production of printed matter and press products must comply with the durability requirements according to DIN 20494. Alternatively, verification of the durability of the paper used for the production of printed matter and press products can be provided by complying with the requirements pursuant to LDK 24-85 in accordance with DIN 6738. A classification of the paper grades is provided in Appendix E. Compliance verification The applicant shall verify compliance with the requirements by submitting a test report from an independent testing institution. Refer to Appendix E9 for information on which reports are required for which paper.
Referenzdokumente:
3.15 Fitness for use ................................................................................................... 16 3.16 Durability of the paper ........................................................................................ 17
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Does the standard include criteria on the fitness for use of the product for the intended purpose?
Socio-Economic 0%
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Freedom of Association
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Collective Bargaining
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Written labour contract(s)
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Prohibition of Forced Labour
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Minimum Age/ ILO 138
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Prohibition of the Worst Forms of Child Labour/ ILO 182
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Equal Remuneration / ILO 100
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Non-Discrimination
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Criteria on Working Hours
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Rights Apply to Sub-Contractors
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Occupational Health and Safety / ILO 155
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Social & Cultural Rights and Community Engagement
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Local Economic Development
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Does the standard include criteria relating to a preference to purchase local materials, goods, products and services?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria relating to hiring workers from local communities?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on investment in community development beyond the business' operations?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on not adversely affecting local communities and neighboring small producers access to livelihoods (especially land and water)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria relating to a preference to purchase local materials, goods, products and services?
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Community Rights
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Does the standard include criteria on dispute resolution mechanisms for affected communities?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the protection of local historical, archaeological, cultural, and spiritual properties and sites?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on dispute resolution mechanisms for affected communities?
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Local Economic Development
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Labour Rights and Working Conditions
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ILO Core Conventions
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Does the standard include criteria on freedom of association and the right to organize as described in ILO 87?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the right to collective bargaining, as laid down by ILO 98?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard prohibit forced and compulsory labour as defined in ILO 29 and ILO 105?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of child labour as defined under ILO 138?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard cover requirements on the prohibition of the worst forms of child labour as defined under ILO 182?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard address the payment of equal wages as defined in ILO 100?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination in the workplace, as defined in ILO 111?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on freedom of association and the right to organize as described in ILO 87?
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Labour Rights
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Voluntary Labour
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Does the standard prohibit the withholding of workers' documents?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the freedom of movemenent of employees?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard prohibit the withholding of workers' documents?
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Child Labour
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Does the standard require verification and documentation of age of (young) workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require that assistance be provided to replaced child workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on special treatment of young workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require verification and documentation of age of (young) workers?
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Gender
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Does the standard include criteria on having policies and/ or processes in place that prevent discrimination of women and men in the workplace?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the right to maternity leave (as defined in ILO 183)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on having policies and/ or processes in place that prevent discrimination of women and men in the workplace?
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Non-Discrimination
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Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination of persons with disabilities?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination of persons with disabilities?
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Wages and Benefits
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Does the standard require paying wages sufficient to meet basic needs of the worker and his or her family (living wage)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require paying legal minimum wages?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require the provision of social benefits?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require compensating overtime?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require paid leave?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require wages being paid in a timely, regular and convenient manner understood by all employees?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require paying wages sufficient to meet basic needs of the worker and his or her family (living wage)?
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Working Hours
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Does the standard include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime?
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Scope of Labour Rights
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Do worker's rights and benefits set out by the standard apply to all forms of work?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Do the standard's rights and benefits for workers also apply to sub-contracted labour?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the establishment of labour contracts compliant with national legal requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Do worker's rights and benefits set out by the standard apply to all forms of work?
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Other Labour Rights
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Does the standard include criteria on the formation of workers representations where freedom of association is restricted by law?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on worker grievance mechanisms?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include requirements on setting up policies or procedures to manage basic labour rights in the workplace?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the formation of workers representations where freedom of association is restricted by law?
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Voluntary Labour
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Health and Safety
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Occupational Health and Safety
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Does the standard prohibit harassment or abuse of workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on occupational health and safety, as defined in ILO 155?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include requirements on workplace conditions?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard require policies and procedures to manage health and safety in the workplace?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the access to basic medical services for workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require compensation payments/ covering of costs in case of work related accidents and injuries?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require that workers have access to safe drinking water?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard require access to clean and improved sanitation facilities?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard prohibit harassment or abuse of workers?
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Building and Fire Safety
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Does the standard include criteria on building safety?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard cover fire-preparedness?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on evacuation safety and emergency management plan?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on building safety?
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Occupational Health and Safety
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ILO Core Conventions
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Business Practice and Ethical Issues
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Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
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Economic Sustainability
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Does the standard include criteria on the provision of professional training for workers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on business viability?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on management plans for continuous improvement?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on improving productivity?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on the provision of professional training for workers?
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Legality
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Does the standard include criteria on business legality?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on business legality?
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Responsible Sourcing Practices
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Does the standard include criteria on fair prices or price premiums?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard's rights and benefits for workers also apply to input suppliers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on reducing time pressure for suppliers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on fair prices or price premiums?
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Economic Sustainability
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Corruption and Bribery
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Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on conducting a due diligence assessment of business partners, including subsidiaries and contractors?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on training workers in positions of responsibility workers on issues of corruption and bribery?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
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Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
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Company Responsibility
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Impact Assessment
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Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
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Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
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Impact Assessment