The criteria for the following Blue Angel ecolabels have been revised:
- Graphic paper and cardboard made from 100% waste paper (recycled paper and cardboard) (DE-UZ 14a)
- Printing and publication paper primarily from recovered paper (DE-UZ 72)
- Paper made from 100% recovered paper for paper bags and boxes (DE-UZ 217a)
- Low-emission floor coverings, panels and doors for interiors made of wood and wood-based materials (DE-UZ 176)
- Construction and furnishing panels for interior construction (DE-UZ 76)
- Low-noise waste-glass containers (DE-UZ 21)
- Writing utensils and stamps (DE-UZ 200)
The Basic Award Criteria for these product groups will be finalised in the coming weeks and made available at www.blauer-engel.de/en/certification/basic-award-criteria. Manufacturers of particularly environmentally friendly products can then apply for the label.
In addition, the jury decided on a certification procedure for digital projectors.
Further information on the revisions:
Graphic paper and cardboard made from 100% waste paper (recycled paper and cardboard) (DE-UZ 14a), Printing and publication paper primarily from recovered paper (DE-UZ 72) and Paper made from 100% recovered paper for paper bags and boxes (DE-UZ 217a)
The use of recovered paper protects valuable resources, especially forests, and contributes to species and climate protection. Graphic paper (DE-UZ 14a) and paper for paper bags and boxes (DE-UZ 217a) are made from 100 per cent recovered paper, while printing and publication paper (DE-UZ 72) must use at least 80 per cent recovered paper. Where possible, waste paper from household collection should be used. The Blue Angel is thus pursuing the goal that all recovered paper fibres remain within the paper cycle and are used in a high-quality application such as graphic paper. In addition, the ecolabel limits the use of critical manufacturing and finishing substances to minimise wastewater pollution and the introduction of harmful substances into paper. Optical brighteners and halogenated bleaching agents are almost completely prohibited. Requirements are also imposed on wastewater emissions from paper production. Requirements on exhaust air, energy consumption and waste management within the manufacturing process have been added.
Low-emission floor coverings, panels and doors for interiors made of wood and wood-based materials (DE-UZ 176) and construction and furnishing panels for interior construction (DE-UZ 76)
The reduction of emissions in interiors is particularly important in order to minimise possible health risks. Emissions are assessed based on the assessment scheme developed by the Committee for Health-related Evaluation of Building Products – a federal and state committee comprised of experts from environmental and health authorities. As emissions are often accompanied by odours, which can also lead to health risks, the sensory inspection is an important element in assessing the various products for interiors. As a result, a compulsory odour test with the possibility of demonstrating low odour levels will be included for these Basic Award Criteria.
The proportion of certified wood has also been increased (to 85%), tests for formaldehyde, acetic acid and formic acid have been added and pollutant requirements for the product have been expanded to ensure recyclability. In addition, requirements have been imposed concerning the residual monomer content of melamine and the exclusion of biocidal treatments.
Writing utensils and stamps (DE-UZ 200)
The ecolabel for writing utensils and stamps indicates products that use resource-friendly materials (recycled materials and/or certified renewable raw materials), implement measures to extend service life and achieve a reduction in substances that are harmful to health and the environment. During the revision, the requirements on the origin of wood were increased to 100% certified wood, the minimum proportion of bio-based materials for plastics was increased to 70% and the proportion for post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials remains high at 80%. Waste textiles can now also be used as alternative materials. The chemical requirements have been revised by adding new hazard categories and tightening requirements for specific substance groups (biocides, DMSO solvents, colouring agents, PFAS, PAHs, (heavy) metals, fragrances and flavourings).
Low-noise waste-glass containers (DE-UZ 21)
Noise pollution due to waste-glass containers can be a problem in residential areas. The ecolabel thus indicates low-noise containers that comply with strict noise limits. The aim is to encourage manufacturers to develop innovative solutions to reduce noise. The criteria ensure health protection and environmental compatibility and enable a long service life due to the simple availability of spare parts.
