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Cred­i­bil­i­ty

En­vi­ron­ment

So­cio-E­co­nom­ic

  • Aim/Focus
  • Standard organisation
  • Good to know
The standard aims at defining a demanding set of criteria based around the environmental and sustainability requirements laid out for the manufacturing process and the entire product especially natural origin ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Proprietor of the label is the ECOCERT Group, an internationally operating certification body, which is also a standard-setting organisation. For nearly 30 years, ECOCERT assists stakeholders in the implementation and promotion of sustainable practices through certification, consulting and training services all around the world. Committed to organic farming since its creation. Ecocert has extended its efforts to many other sectors, such as detergents and cosmetics.
There are 2 levels of certification: Ecocert Natural Detergents and Ecocert Natural Detergents made with organic for which there is at least 95% of natural origin ingredients and at least 10% of ingredients from organic farming.
Information about scheme documents

Below is a list of documents and policies that were used in the collection of the scheme data:

ECOCERT Standard (NATURAL DETERGENTSAND NATURAL DETERGENTSMADE WITH ORGANIC) February 2017

Cred­i­bil­i­ty 66%

  • Availability of Scheme Structure
  • Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
  • Availability of Standard
  • Public Consultation of Standard
  • Standard Review
  • Scheme Legal Status
  • Sources of Finance
  • Standard-Setting Process
  • Assessment Methodology
  • Sustainability Goals and Objectives of the Scheme
  • Key Issues
  • Stakeholder Feedback
  • Consistent Interpretation
  • Scheme Accessibility
  • Assurance Provider Complaints and Appeals Mechanism
  • Assessment Reports Availability
  • Scope and Duration of Certificate / License
  • Certified or Verified Enterprise / Labelled Product List
  • Accredited/ Approved Assurance Providers
  • Independent Conformity Assessment
  • Consistent Decision-Making on Conformity
  • Procedure on Non-Conformities
  • Claims and Labelling Policy
  • Scheme Management
    11/18
    • Governance
      9/12
      • Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure publicly available, including composition of governance bodies?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (0 points)
        • Yes publicly (1 point)
        • 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?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Is there a mechanism for stakeholders to participate in scheme development and decision-making?
        Answer: Yes available on request
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes available publicly (2 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • 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?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
        Answer: Yes (on request)
        Score: 1/2
        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?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
    • Impact
      1/5
      • Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Complaints Mechanism
      0/0
      • Does the scheme owner have a publicly available and easily accessible complaints mechanism?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: None/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Supporting Strategies
      1/1
      • Does the scheme implement strategies or activities to support improved performance of participating enterprises, e.g. capacity building, access to finance?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
  • Standard-Setting
    9/13
    • Is the standard made publicly available free of charge?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (0 points)
      • Yes publicly (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
    • Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector where the scheme operates or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Is the standard-setting procedure or a summary of the process for how stakeholders can engage in standard-setting made publicly available?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (0 points)
      • Yes publicly (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
    • Can stakeholders participate in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: Invitation only
      Score: 1/2
      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?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability through the development and revision processes?
      Answer: No
      Score: 0/1
      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?
      Answer: Yes (on request)
      Score: 1/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)
    • Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
      Answer: No
      Score: 0/1
      Possible answers
      • Yes (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
      • Not applicable (0 points)
  • Assurance
    35/54
    • Assurance System
      11/15
      • Is there a publicly available documented assessment methodology for assurance providers to assess conformity with the standard?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (0 points)
        • Yes publicly available (1 point)
      • Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner provide information on assessment fees or require this of assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes available on request
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have an easily accessible complaints and appeals mechanism?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner make, or require assurance providers to make a summary of certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
        Answer: No (confidential)
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • No (no reports) (0 points)
        • No (confidential) (1 point)
        • Yes (on request) (2 points)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance and duration for which it is valid?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain or require assurance providers 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)?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain a current and publicly available list of all accredit-ed/approved/suspended assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes (publicly)
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (0 points)
        • Yes (publicly) (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner review the effectiveness of their assurance system on a periodic basis?
        Answer: Ad hoc
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Annual (1 point)
        • Every 3 years (1 point)
        • Every 5 years (1 point)
        • Ad hoc (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme require performance improvements over time to maintain certification?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: None/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for assurance providers that are assessing chain of custody?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • yes publicly available (2 points)
        • yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to report to them on complaints received and, on the actions, taken to resolve the issue?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: None/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain an information management system?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: None/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Has the scheme specified equivalence requirements for any other scheme assurance results it recognises?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Conformity Assessment
      13/18
      • Conformity Assessment Process
        4/4
        • Does the scheme require a third-party conformity assessment of all clients for compliance with its standard?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (2 points)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner define requirements for decision-making to ensure that assurance providers use consistent procedures for determining the conformity of clients or laboratory testing results with the standard?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers 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?
          Answer: yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • yes (1 point)
      • Sustainability Audits
        6/9
        • Does the scheme owner have a documented oversight approach that requires assurance providers to be accredited or compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025 (for laboratories) requirements, or alternatively to be compliant with the relevant ISEAL Assurance Code requirements?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require that clients are audited on a regular, recurring basis?
          Answer: 1 year or less
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • 1 year or less (1 point)
          • 1-2 years (1 point)
          • 2-3 years (1 point)
          • 4-5 years (1 point)
          • 5 years or more (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is the frequency or intensity of an audit or oversight assessment based on a risk assessment of the client or assurance provider?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner specify the required intensity for each type of audit and the activities that must be carried out by assurance providers for each of its standards?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner allow or require assurance providers to do unannounced audits?
          Answer: Not allowed
          Score: 0/2
          Possible answers
          • Allowed (1 point)
          • Required (2 points)
          • Not allowed (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Are auditors and assessors required to seek external stakeholder input during the audit and oversight assessment process?
          Answer: No
          Score: 0/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to follow a consistent report format?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers and oversight bodies use competent and impartial personnel (other than auditor/assessor/ team) to make decisions on compliance?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Group Certification
        0/2
        • Is the group required to have a shared management system with clear responsibilities for implementation of the system?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner have a mechanism that prescribes and justifies how all sites within a group certification will be audited over time?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a sample size formula and sampling approach to determine the number of group members that is externally verified and how the sample is chosen?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Score: 0/2
          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?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Member suspended from certification (1 point)
          • Member removed from a group (1 point)
          • Group suspension (1 point)
          • No repercussion (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Chain of Custody
        0/0
        • 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?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Laboratory Testing
        3/3
        • In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
          Answer: Yes publicly
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (on request) (1 point)
          • Yes publicly (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the conformity monitoring?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a procedure to deal with non-conforming products manufactured by a client / licensee?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Assessor/ Auditor Competencies
      4/8
      • Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: None/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance provider auditors successfully complete auditor training on a standard that is relevant to the scheme and that is based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance and oversight providers implement a programme to monitor and ensure the continued competence and good performance of assessors and auditors?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner carry out or require assurance providers to carry out calibration activities to ensure that assessors /auditors are aligned?
        Answer: Ad Hoc
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Annually (2 points)
        • Ad Hoc (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers have a Code of Conduct, or equivalent, and supporting procedures to guide behaviour and actions of assurance providers' personnel and to address misconduct
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner assess potential risks to auditor / assessor impartiality and where warranted, do they require assurance providers and oversight bodies to implement practices to mitigate these risks?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Accreditation / Oversight
      7/13
      • Does the scheme require an oversight mechanism and is it documented?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
      • Is oversight conducted by a third party independent of the scheme owner and assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme define the nature and intensity of oversight activities on assurance providers?
        Answer: 1 year
        Score: 2/2
        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)
      • Does the intensity of oversight activities take account of risk factors associated with the assurance providers and their personnel?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner clearly define the application and selection process for assurance providers?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner assess scheme-specific competence when accepting assurance providers that are accredited to other relevant standards (proxy accreditation)?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Yes assess scheme-specific competence (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have or require oversight providers to have documented and accessible complaints and appeals mechanisms?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner define or request that oversight providers define how assurance providers have to address non-conformities raised through oversight?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that summaries of oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) are made publicly available?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that on-site assessments of assurance providers are included in the oversight cycle?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that oversight includes reviews of assurance provider performance in the field?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
  • Claims & Traceability
    6/8
    • Traceability
      2/3
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements that apply to the full supply chain?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers 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?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Claims & Labelling
      4/5
      • Does the scheme owner have documented requirements for the use of its symbols, logos and/or claims related to its scheme and make them publicly available?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • 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?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims and do they also require this of their assurance providers?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)

En­vi­ron­ment 84%

  • Aquatic Toxicity
  • Biodegradability of Substances
  • Chemicals harmful to human health
  • Quantity of Packaging
  • Recyclability of Packaging Material
  • Consumer information regarding sustainable use and disposal of product
  • Chemicals
    11/12
    • Chemical Use
      11/12
      • Does the standard include criteria on chemicals listed on the REACH Candidate List as substances of very high concern?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Regulation (EC) No 907/2006 of 20 June 2006 amending Regulation (EC) No 648/2004 in order to adapt Appendixes III and VII.

        Referenzdokumente:

        V.REGULATORY BASES B.Regulations applicable to detergents

      • Does the standard include criteria on ready biodegradability of substances?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor and restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Authorised sequestrant regardless of the type of detergent A synthetic sequestrant can be used in a certified detergent provided that it meets the following conditions: • Biodegradability > 60% according to OECD 301 series • Acute toxicity to aquatic organisms:  LC50 for fish> 10mg / L for 96 h (OECD 203 or equivalent)  EC50 for crustacea > 10mg / L for 48 h (OECD 202 or equivalent)  EC50 for a variety of algae > 10mg / L for 72 or 96h (OECD 201 or equivalent) Biodegradability of surfactants Only those surfactants with an ultimate biodegradability of over 60% within 28 days according to EN ISO 14593 and anaerobic biodegradability of 60% according to EN ISO 11734 are authorised. Biodegradability of the finished product The ultimate biodegradability of the finished product, according to OECD 301-series methods, can be specified on the product label, provided that it has actually been measured. The surfactants rejected for certified detergents but which may potentially be used in products for the cleaning of facilities must meet the following criteria:"Ultimate, rapid and complete aerobic and anaerobic biodegradability (OECD 301 series> 70% in 28 days)"

        Referenzdokumente:

        I. APPENDIX I: Authorised synthetic petrochemical ingredients, disinfectant substances and ingredients from mineral origin D. Authorised sequestrant regardless of the type of detergent II. APPENDIX II: Selection of surfactants D. Biodegradability of surfactants C. Biodegradability of the finished product

      • Does the standard include criteria on H statements?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use by e.g. a risk based approach (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        A. Authorised ingredients regardless of the type of detergent 1. Pure synthetic ingredients 2. Active disinfectant substances 3. Ingredients from mineral origin B. Authorised ingredients in laundry and dishwashing detergents C. Authorised ingredients in powder detergents

        Referenzdokumente:

        I. APPENDIX I: Authorised synthetic petrochemical ingredients, disinfectant substances and ingredients from mineral origin

      • Does the scheme include criteria on other substances which have impact on human health and the environment?
        Answer: Basic: Restrict use
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Only natural fragrances and colorants are authorised if the processes for obtaining them are physical or chemical processes that comply with Annex III. Fragrances and colorants derived from petrochemicals ((including those identical to nature) are not authorised, even if they are food safe.

        Referenzdokumente:

        "III. RULES ON THE INGREDIENTS AND COMPOSITION OF THE FINISHED PRODUCT B. Rules applied to certain ingredient functions 3. Fragrances and colorants"

      • Does the standard include criteria on limitations of aquatic toxicity of the product?
        Answer: Advanced: Definition of a product specific critical dilution volume
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Limitation of aquatic toxicity (1 point)
        • Advanced: Definition of a product specific critical dilution volume (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        "(…) c) Rules specific to Natural Detergents made with Organic Natural Detergents made with Organic cannot be certified if they: • Carry any risk phrase whatsoever on the label (with the exception of concentrated refills if they are developed such that contact with the user is impossible under normal conditions of use. In this case, only risk phrases H400, H410, H411, H412 and H413, or phrases R50 to R59 in accordance with directive 2001/59/EC are prohibited) (...)"

        Referenzdokumente:

        "III. RULES ON THE INGREDIENTS AND COMPOSITION OF THE FINISHED PRODUCT C. Rules on the composition of the finished product 2. Definition of the 2 labels"

      • Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of microplastic?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        "• A synthetic ingredient is understood to be any ingredient derived, totally or partially, from the petrochemical industry. They cannot be part of the composition of a product covered by this standard. • However, without prejudice to European regulation of detergents, preservative agents, in accordance with Annex I.A.1 of this standard, are authorised in the ingredients or the finished product to ensure the longevity of certain detergents. • Also authorised are the other ingredients in Annex I.A.1 that do not have a preservation function and surfactants as defined in Annex I.D."

        Referenzdokumente:

        III. RULES ON THE INGREDIENTS AND COMPOSITION OF THE FINISHED PRODUCT 2. Synthetic ingredient

      • Does the standard include criteria on the limited use of propellants?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        Certain propellant gases are prohibited. Sprays, atomisers or misters using a pressurised gas such as propane, n-butane, isobutene or methoxymethane (dimethyl ether), which represent a potential hazard, are prohibited.

        Referenzdokumente:

        "IV. WRAPPING AND PACKAGING B. Propellants"

  • Water
    1/2
    • Water use
      1/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time (1 point)
        • Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        "(…) This standard considers that ISO 14001 allows the company to comply with these requirements. (…)"

        Referenzdokumente:

        VII. MEASURES FOR PROTECTING THE IMMEDIATE ENVIRONMENT

  • Inputs
    3/4
    • Packaging
      3/4
      • Does the standard include criteria on the quantity of packaging?
        Answer: Basic: General requirement to minimize the amount of material used
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: General requirement to minimize the amount of material used (1 point)
        • Advanced: Defined calculations to measure the quantity of packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Insofar as possible, the packaging will be made using materials for which there are established recycling channels: glass, aluminium, paper/cardboard, PP, PET, PE). Packaging made from renewable resources is acceptable. Those made from dead animals or involving the death of an animal (leather, silk, etc.) are prohibited. For any other material submitted, a study of the technical dossier will be made taking into account one or more of the following: • Resources used and manufacturing processes for the material • Use: primary packaging, secondary packaging, etc. • Technicality (evaluated by Ecocert) • Possible substitution by another material • Packaging end of life: reuse, recycling, etc. The packaging methods listed below are not authorised: • Products sold in single doses (except laundry detergent and dishwasher tablets, which can be individually wrapped to protect them from moisture and limit overdoses) • Wet wipes Manufacturers must try their best to market a refill system for their products. Concentrated refills, containing a limited quantity of water, should be prioritised. The use of certain materials, such as vinyl polymers (e.g. PVC) and styrenic polymers (e.g. PS) will be routinely rejected. 2. Secondary packagings Using secondary packagings must be justified and these have to be biodegradable. Nevertheless, especially for refills, their eventual secondary packaging might only be recyclable. 3. Overpacking Overpacking such as cases/boxes cellophanage is prohibited. B. Propellants Certain propellant gases are prohibited. Sprays, atomisers or misters using a pressurised gas such as propane, n-butane, isobutene or methoxymethane (dimethyl ether), which represent a potential hazard, are prohibited.

        Referenzdokumente:

        IV. WRAPPING AND PACKAGING

      • Does the standard include criteria on the packaging material in order to facilitate recycling?
        Answer: Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Either recyclability of packaging material OR the use of recycled material in packaging (1 point)
        • Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        "(...) Insofar as possible, the packaging will be made using materials for which there are established recycling channels: glass, aluminium, paper/cardboard, PP, PET, PE). (...)" For any other material submitted, a study of the technical folder will be made taking into account one or more of the following: • Resources used and manufacturing processes for the material • Use: primary packaging, secondary packaging, etc. • Technicality (evaluated by Ecocert) • Possible substitution for another material • Packaging life cycle: reuse, recycling, etc The packaging methods listed below are not authorised: • Products sold in single doses (except laundry detergent and dishwasher tablets, which can be individually wrapped to protect them from moisture and limit overdoses) • Wet wipes Manufacturers must try their best to market a refill system for their products. Concentrated refills, containing a limited quantity of water, should be prioritised. The use of certain materials, such as vinyl polymers (e.g. PVC) and styrenic polymers (e.g. PS) will be routinely rejected. 2. Secondary packaging Using secondary packaging must be justified, and this packaging must be biodegradable. Nevertheless, especially for refills, their eventual secondary packaging might only be recyclable. 3. Overpacking Overpacking such as using cellophane to wrap cases/boxes is prohibited.

        Referenzdokumente:

        "IV. WRAPPING AND PACKAGING A. Packaging"

  • Energy & Climate
    2/2
    • Climate Change Mitigation
      2/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
        • Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        All businesses must undertake a process of improving the management of energy, the objective of which is to provide for the ever-increasing use of renewable energies and a growing call to action to save energy.

        Referenzdokumente:

        "VII. MEASURES FOR PROTECTING THE IMMEDIATE ENVIRONMENT C. Energy Management"

  • Waste and Air Pollution
    1/2
    • Waste Management
      1/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic (0 points)
        • Advanced: Reduction of volumes of waste (1 point)
      • Does the scheme include criteria on consumer information on the sustainable use and disposal of the product?
        Answer: Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Information provided to consumers on the disposal of the product (0 points)
        • Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        H. User information Clear and precise information on the amount of product used per wash cycle must be given. The unit of measurement must be displayed; a second well-known unit of measurement, such as a teaspoon, for example, can also be given. In the case of products for dishwashers or washing machines, dosage recommendations should be given according to the degree of soiling of the clothes or dishes. A temperature range should be recommended. The particulars specified in Appendix IV must be displayed on the label or in another media (communication document, website). In the latter case, a reference to that other medium must be mentioned on the label.

        Referenzdokumente:

        I. SCOPE OF APPLICATION H. User information

  • Environmental Management
    2/2
    • Does the standard include criteria on environmental policy or management instruments (like EMAS or ISO 14001)?
      Answer: Advanced: Certification (third party) of final manufacturing plant
      Degree of Obligation: Immediately
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Basic: Verification (self-declaration) of final manufacturing plant (1 point)
      • Advanced: Certification (third party) of final manufacturing plant (2 points)

      Excerpt from standard:

      "Companies must implement a series of measures, along with the associated internal control procedures, concerning the processing of all waste products resulting from a production process, to protect the environment. These measures must as a minimum include: • An environmental analysis plan allowing the identification of activities, products and services with a significant impact on the environment. • An Environmental Management Programme allowing the definition, management, implementation and achievement of the environmental objectives established by the company. These provisions only apply to operators directly engaged by the certification body that have a production process (manufacture and/or packaging). This standard considers that ISO 14001 allows the company to comply with these requirements. (...)"

      Referenzdokumente:

      VII. MEASURES FOR PROTECTING THE IMMEDIATE ENVIRONMENT

  • Quality
    1/1
    • Quality and Suitability
      1/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the fitness for use of the product for the intended purpose?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        IV.APPENDIX IV: Special precautions and instructionsThe particulars specified below are to be displayed on the label or a reference should be made in other media (communication document, website):Dishwashing products (by hand)"To save water and energy by washing efficiently, immerse the dishes in water instead of washing with a jet from the tap and stick to the recommended product doses. Efficient washing does not require lots of foam"Dishwasher detergents "For more environmentally friendly usage, run your dishwasher with a full load, choose low temperature washing cycles and follow dosage instructions"Fabric detergents "For more environmentally friendly usage, run your washing machine with a full load, choose low temperature washing cycles and follow dosage instructions"Surface and bathroom cleaners (if the instructions for use give doses or dilutions)."To reduce the environmental impact, follow the recommended doses"

        Referenzdokumente:

        IV.APPENDIX IV:


So­cio-E­co­nom­ic 0%

  • Verification of Core Labour Standards along the Supply Chain
  • Equal Opportunities
  • CSR Strategy
  • Labour Rights and Working Conditions
    0/4
    • ILO Core Conventions
      0/2
      • Does the standard require compliance with (at least) all ILO core labour standards for different suppliers along the supply chain?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Main tier 1 suppliers (1 point)
        • Advanced: All tier 1 suppliers (2 points)
    • Health and Safety
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on occupational health and safety, as defined in ILO 155?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Partial compliance with ILO 155 (1 point)
        • Advanced: Full compliance with ILO 155 (2 points)
  • Business Practice and Ethical Issues
    0/2
    • Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
      0/1
      • Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
    • Corruption and Bribery
      0/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the prevention of corruption and bribery?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Corruption and bribery is prohibited (1 point)
        • Advanced (0 points)
  • Company Responsibility
    0/7
    • Company Responsibility in Europe
      0/5
      • Does the standard require the implementation of measures that aim at generating equal economic opportunities for women and men?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
      • Does the standard require the definition of a company-wide CSR strategy?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: A CSR strategy is defined (1 point)
        • Advanced: CSR strategy is publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the standard include criteria on community engagement?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
      • Does the standard include requirements on measures that aim at managing demographic change?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
    • Impact Assessment
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Human Rights Impact Assessment OR Social Impact Assessment (1 point)
        • Advanced: Human Rights Impact Assessment AND Social Impact Assessment (2 points)

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Cultivation of renewable raw materials (e.g. palm oil) and/or extraction and production of ingredients

Manufacturing

Production of detergents and cleaning agents by the mixing of various ingredients (vegetable or petroleum-based)

Transportation / distribution

Transport routes from one production stage to the next and to end users

Products use and consumption

Usage of detergents and cleaning agents

End-of-life

Proper disposal of packaging along with degradability and toxicity of the product (in water) after its use