The Nordic Swan Ecolabel recognised by U.S. environmental authorities

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated its recommendations for environmentally sustainable products and services, highlighting the Nordic Swan Ecolabel as a trusted certification. The aim is to provide better guidance for both the public and private sectors in the U.S. in identifying products that meet high environmental standards.

Clearer guidance in a sea of labels

The market is flooded with environmental claims and labels of varying credibility, making it difficult for consumers and purchasers to determine which certifications truly make a difference. EPA's recognition of the Nordic Swan Ecolabel as a reliable environmental certification further strengthens its established position beyond the EU.

– We know that public procurers are looking for clear guidelines to make more sustainable choices. By being included in the EPA’s recommendations, Nordic Swan Ecolabelled products gain international exposure and a competitive advantage in the U.S. market, says Anna Linusson, CEO of Ecolabelling Sweden.

One of the world's largest procurement markets

With EPA's recognition, companies receive further confirmation that their efforts to eco-label products and services are making a difference. U.S. federal procurement is one of the largest in the world, and the recommendation currently applies to Nordic Swan Ecolabelled hygiene products, clothing, uniforms, and textiles. Certifications seeking inclusion on EPA's list must apply and undergo evaluation, a process that has taken two years.

– Being included on EPA’s list demonstrates that Nordic Ecolabelling’s holistic approach—continuously tightening criteria and ensuring independent verification—delivers results. We aim to expand the recognition to include more product categories, says Tormod Lien, senior procurement advisor at Ecolabelling Norway.

Ecolabelling streamlines procurement

The Nordic Swan Ecolabel's criteria are regularly updated to ensure that ecolabelled products remain among the most environmentally sustainable choices. Using an officially recognised Type 1 ecolabel makes it easier for purchasers to set high environmental standards, as these requirements are verified and monitored by the ecolabelling organisation.

For more information:

Tormod Lien, senior procurement advisor at Ecolabelling Norway tormod.lien@svanemerket.no, +47 928 37 959