Green by choice

Sustainability is not just a key focus for the New Zealand Government it is also a priority for an increasing number of local companies. The New Zealand Ecolabelling Trust, established by the Ministry for the Environment, says there is currently a queue of companies wanting to be assessed for the official eco-label, with the list of certified companies doubling in the past year.

In New Zealand, this eco-label, which subscribes to guidelines of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), is Environmental Choice New Zealand. The label is recognised by its green and black planetary globe and attached tick symbol.

Environmental Choice recognises the genuine moves made by manufacturers to reduce the environmental impacts of their products. It provides a credible and independent guide for consumers who want to purchase products that are better for the environment.

The Minister for the Environment, Hon David Benson-Pope is a keen supporter of Environmental Choice and has been instrumental in urging key government agencies to support products with the eco-label.

"The Environmental Choice New Zealand eco-label is this country's only Type 1 eco-label," he says. "This means that it is full life-cycle impacts-based, independently third-party audited, awarded using multiple public criteria, and meets the ISO 14-024 standards for criteria setting and auditing. It is the consumer's confirmation that the product they are purchasing is better for the environment than other products that do not meet such specifications."

Marje Russ is one of the panel of independent and skilled auditors that operate at arm's length from the trust, in this case as a consultant for respected consulting firm Tonkin and Taylor. She says the labelling process is robust and clear.

"It's a very formal and public process, determining what defines a preferable product, based on life cycle assessment. Manufacturers not only have to sign a declaration, but also produce the tests and reports to show that their products meet all the requirements of the standard consistently. It's not enough that someone has made some leap of faith we have to see the data and prove the point.

"The number and stature of companies prepared to make the investment that is required to achieve certification is proof of the respect the label has earned."

For more information on the Environmental Choice programme, contact NZ Ecolabelling Trust, PO Box 56-533, Dominion Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland, phone (09) 845 3330, fax (09) 845 3331. Or visit the website: www.enviro-choice.org.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas