Eco-Friendly Certificates Explained
Are you looking to order eco-friendly labels but feel there seems to be some mystery about the certifications regarding the label material? Then read our most recent blog for eco-friendly certificates explained…
Eco-Friendly Certificates Explained
Every industry has its own jargon and industry standards. Ours, the printing industry, is no exception and our customers are often interested to know about specific terms when it comes to ordering customised eco-friendly labels. We have put together some of the most frequently asked questions about the definitions for certifications, when it comes to packaging and printed labels and stickers.
What is FSC Certified?
FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council. FSC is a non-profit organisation which works to promote the idea of forests being sustainable. This includes protection of habitat for animal species that live in the forest, not displacing native people and being sure more trees are planted than harvested. The FSC gives approval and provides certification to paper material products which demonstrate social responsibility.
Most paper products do come from sustainable forestation these days. That could have something to do with the fact that this organisation has been around since 1923 trying to make sure that happens. The focus of the FSC are environmental implications and preventing the illegal use of timber. FSC certified paper is a great alternative to recycled paper where the final product must have a smooth uniform finish and professional quality as compared to rougher recycled paper.
What does PEFC Certified mean?
PEFC stands for Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. This is another non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management. PEFC tends to work more with small scale landowners and fights to protect the rights of the workers along with protection of the forests. This means people are paid properly and no civil rights are violated. Ultimately the codes of practice are very similar to FSC and both certifications add value to packaging showing that products are from sustainable sources and not illegal timber.
EN13432
This is the EU standard for compostable and biodegradable packaging. When choosing eco-friendly packaging, we want to ensure that the material complies with this standard where possible.
To go into more detail, EN13432 means that when packaging material is mixed with organic waste and maintained under industrial composting conditions for 12 weeks, no more than 10 % of material fragments should be larger than 2 mm. The results for home composting may of course differ.
1935/2004/EC
This is all about food stickers. If we want to use stickers directly on items of fruit, vegetables and other foodstuffs then we need to ensure that the film used complies with European food Regulation Number 1935/2004/EC.
1935/2004/EC means that sticker material has been tested for harmful chemicals that could contaminate food and subsequently make people ill. Stickers that are compliant with 1935/2004/EC can be used safely on food and without risk.
If you are not sure which material type would suit your product then why not ask for a free sample of these different types of materials.
Just get in touch by calling on 01548 859029 or emailing marketing@greenlabels.co.uk.
