Ecomark Scheme: Promoting Sustainable Products in India

The Ecomark Scheme, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, is a vital initiative to promote environmentally friendly products and encourage sustainable consumption patterns. This scheme aims to empower consumers to make informed choices by identifying products that meet specific environmental criteria, thereby fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

Objectives of the Ecomark Scheme

The primary objectives of the Ecomark Scheme are:

• Promote Eco-Friendly Products: To encourage the production and consumption of products that have a lower environmental impact.

• Empower Consumers: To enable consumers to make informed purchasing decisions by identifying environmentally preferable products.

• Support Green Industries: To incentivize manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly practices and produce sustainable products.

• Reduce Environmental Impact: To minimize the adverse effects of products on the environment, including climate change, biodiversity, and resource depletion.

• Prevent Misleading Claims: To prevent misleading information about the environmental aspects of products.

Key Features of the Ecomark Scheme

The Ecomark Scheme operates through a certification process that involves the following key elements:

1. Product Categories: The scheme covers a wide range of product categories, including architectural paints, cosmetics, batteries, textiles, paper products, and more.

2. Environmental Criteria: Each product category has specific environmental criteria that must be met to qualify for the Ecomark. These criteria focus on reducing pollution, promoting recycling, conserving resources, and minimizing the use of hazardous materials.

3. Certification Process: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is responsible for administering the scheme and granting the Ecomark to products that meet the specified criteria.

4. Verification: The CPCB or a registered verifier verifies whether a product meets the required criteria.

5. Validity: The Ecomark is valid for three years or until a change in the Ecomark criteria for the product, whichever is earlier.

6. Labeling: Products that have been granted the Ecomark are required to display the Ecomark label.

7. Monitoring: The CPCB monitors the implementation of the scheme and ensures compliance with its guidelines.

Eligibility Criteria for Ecomark

To be eligible for the Ecomark, a product must:

• Comply with relevant Indian Standards (BIS) for quality and safety.

• Meet the specific environmental criteria outlined for its product category.

• Be certified or have a license of conformity from the Bureau of Indian Standards or have a mandate of the Quality Control Orders issued by the Central Government.

• Reduce pollution by minimizing or eliminating waste and emissions.

• Be recyclable or made from recycled materials.

• Reduce the use of non-renewable resources.

• Minimize the use of hazardous materials.

Role of Key Stakeholders

• Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): The CPCB is the administrator of the Ecomark Scheme, responsible for granting the Ecomark, developing criteria, and monitoring compliance.

• Steering Committee: A steering committee, led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, oversees the effective implementation of the scheme.

• Technical Committees: Technical committees, constituted by the CPCB, provide technical expertise and recommendations for the scheme.

• Verifiers: Registered verifiers verify if products meet the required criteria.

• Registered Agencies: Agencies registered for carrying out inspections and verification of products.

Procedure for Obtaining Ecomark

1. Application: Manufacturers apply to the CPCB in the prescribed format.

2. Verification: The CPCB or a verifier verifies if the product meets the criteria.

3. Report: A report on the verification is submitted to the CPCB.

4. Grant of Ecomark: If the product meets the criteria, the CPCB grants the Ecomark.

5. Renewal: The Ecomark can be renewed upon application and compliance with the criteria.

6. Annual Report: Ecomark holders are required to submit annual reports to the CPCB.

Cancellation of Ecomark

The CPCB can suspend or cancel an Ecomark if the holder:

• Provides false information.

• Conceals required information.

• Fails to comply with the scheme’s guidelines.

Appeals Process

An Ecomark holder can appeal to the Central Government within 30 days of a suspension or cancellation order.

Conclusion

The Ecomark Scheme is a crucial initiative for promoting environmentally responsible consumption and production in India. By providing a clear framework for identifying and labeling eco-friendly products, the scheme empowers consumers to make informed choices and encourages manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices. This, in turn, contributes to a greener and more sustainable future for India.