ECO-Mark Certification
Eco-Mark is a certification of a product that is ecologically safe and adheres to the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and it is issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) for products that meet the prescribed environmental norms as well as the quality standards set by BIS; thus Eco-Mark helps in identifying Eco-Friendly products. This scheme was brought out by the MoEF, Government of India in the year 1991.
The following products have to have this label:
- Aerosols and Propellants
- Architectural Paints and Powder Coatings
- Batteries
- Cosmetics
- Electrical and Electronic Goods
- Fire-extinguisher
- Food Additives
- Food Items
- Leather and Coir & Coir Products
- Lubricating Oils
- Packing/Packaging Material
- Paints
- Plastic Products
- Soaps and Detergents
- Textiles
- Wood Substitutes
To carry out the scheme smoothly and without obstacles, BIS undertakes the following duties:
- Firstly, a product assessment is conducted to assure compliance with the standards set for acquiring an ECO Mark. When this is complied with, Eco-Mark certification of the product is granted.
- BIS also regularly undertakes renewal, cancellation and suspension of licenses granted to applicants/manufacturers.
- Lastly, products certified to be eligible for the ECO Mark must also carry an ISI mark (excluding leather) for product quality, safety and performance.
Objectives:
- An Incentive for Manufacturers;
- Reduce environmental impact;
- Ensure consumers are responsible;
- Encourage to buy good products;
- Improve the quality of the environment;
What does the Eco-Mark logo indicate:
The Eco-Mark logo signifies compliance with standards related to ecological sustainability in products manufactured across India.
Eco –Mark certification and Licensing:
Manufacturers have to apply for the Eco-Mark label to BIS and BIS will carry out the testing and certification process. Once the product gets a label, it can carry the Eco-Mark label for a stipulated period.
Eco–Mark Label and Its Benefits:
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/
- Compliances – Certain standards related to compliance may be maintained by an industry with this form of industry
- Promoting efficiency– Sustainable development and efficiency can be promoted at all levels by securing this form of certification
- Raise consumer awareness: – Labeled products show consumers that the manufacturer is using the standard to maintain an eco-friendly environment.
Following documents are required for Applying for Eco-Mark
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Article of Association
- Products details
- Details information obtained from the lab
- National Accreditation Board of Testing and calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation
- Sample information
- Product catalogue
Application Process:
- Making Application by Manufacturers who want to use this logo in their product has to apply to BIS through the online process in the prescribed form.
- Inspection and Testing On receipt of the application, BIS will inspect the premises, test and check the product standard and grant a license if found satisfactory. The BIS would also send a notification or a draft regarding the compliances to be carried out by the applicant.
- Licensing and further requirements Once the license is granted the applicant will have to apply for an Eco-Mark label and comply with such requirements as agreed by BIS for the Eco-Mark.
The author-Ajay Kacher (M.Com, LLB, CS), is a Legal Associate in IP & Legal Filing, and Garima Chauhan – a Legal Intern, in case of any queries please contact/write back to us at support@ipandlegalfilings.com.
