Brussels, 14 September 2023
Today, the Commission adopted updated EU Ecolabel criteria for absorbent hygiene products – strengthening existing standards for tampons, pads, and nappies – as well as proposing brand new criteria for reusable menstrual cups. The new criteria aim to guarantee that absorbent hygiene products and menstrual cups with the voluntary EU Ecolabel – the EU’s official label for environmental excellence – are of high quality and have reduced environmental impacts.
The updated criteria consider impacts on air, water, soil and biodiversity, as well as damages or risks related to chemical use, throughout the products’ lifecycle. For example, for absorbent hygiene products, strict limits are imposed on emissions of air and water pollutants from fluff production, as well as on CO2 emissions. Requirements on fibres promote sourcing from sustainably managed forests. Many hazardous substances such as antibacterial agents, formaldehyde, parabens, endocrine disruptors and phthalates are banned. EU Ecolabel tampons, pads, nappies and menstrual cups will also be free from fragrances and lotions that can cause allergies.
In addition to the environmental aspects, the new requirements also include ‘fitness for use’ criteria guaranteeing high quality products, and a mandatory third-party verification of the corporate social responsibility of the manufacturing site with regard to labour aspects.
Through the EU Ecolabel, industry can offer reliable and truly environmentally responsible products, empowering consumers to make informed choices and play an active role in the green transition.
Source – EU Commission