Portugal is the European Union country where the population is least able to recognize the bloc’s eco-label, with more than half of Portuguese unable to identify it, according to a Eurobarometer released today.
According to that report, published on World Eco-Label Day, 57% of respondents in Portugal admit that they do not know the flower-shaped label created by the European Union (EU) in 1993, the highest rate in the entire bloc, above the European average (42%).
In Portugal, only 32% of respondents say they recognize the label, a rate that contrasts with that recorded in Luxembourg, where 71% of those questioned say they know the symbol, the highest rate in all of the EU.
When asked how often they usually buy products with the EU Eco-Label, only 11% of respondents in Portugal admit doing so regularly, 31% sometimes, and 17% never, values that are in line with the European average.
In a statement, the European Commission says that, on average across the EU, the Eurobarometer “reveals an increase in confidence and recognition of the EU Eco-Label” and notes that European consumers “are increasingly seeking sustainable products.”
The Commission emphasizes that “almost two in every three Europeans (66%) say they frequently or occasionally buy products with any type of eco-label, while 46% say they frequently or occasionally buy products” with the EU label.
Cited in the statement, European Commissioner for the Environment, Jessika Roswall, says that the EU Eco-Label “aims to realize the transition to a clean economy, providing consumers with more reliable sustainable options and, at the same time, helping European companies turn their environmental ambitions into action.”
“The strong momentum around the label demonstrates the value of this EU certification system, based on trust, which promotes sustainability, strengthens competitiveness and supports innovation across Europe,” it adds.
The EU Eco-Label was created to ensure European consumers that the product in question meets stringent environmental criteria, is third-party verified, and recognized in all EU countries.
Today, more than 100,000 products sold on the European market bear the EU Eco-Label.
To obtain it, companies must apply and pay an initial and annual fee.
