Eco Mark | Environmental Law - CLAT PG PDF Download

Introduction

• Ecomark is a certification mark issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for products that are ecologically safe and meet specific standards.
• It was first introduced in 1991 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
• Ecomark provides certification and labeling for household and consumer products that meet certain environmental criteria along with quality requirements.

Objectives of Eco mark scheme

• To incentivize producers and importers to minimize the negative environmental impact of their products.
• To acknowledge and reward companies for their efforts in reducing the environmental impact of their products.
• To promote environmental awareness among consumers and encourage them to consider environmental factors in their purchasing decisions.
• To encourage the use of environmentally safe products.
• To enhance environmental quality and support sustainable resource management.

Eco Mark Logo

• The Eco mark logo depicts an earthen pot, symbolizing strength and fragility, and representing the ecosystem.
• The use of renewable resources, such as earth, and the low energy consumption in its production are highlighted by the logo.
• The logo underscores the concept of hazardous waste reduction.

Eco Mark Criteria

• Pollution Potential: Products should have significantly lower pollution potential compared to similar products in terms of usage, production, and disposal.
• Material Usage: Products should be recycled, recyclable, or made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
• Resource Preservation: Products must contribute significantly to preserving non-renewable resources.
• Adverse Impact Reduction: Products should contribute to decreasing the adverse impact associated with their use.

Determining Primary Criteria

• Production Process: Consider the production process and the source of raw materials.
• Natural Resource Usage: Evaluate the usage of natural resources.
• Environmental Impact: Assess the likely impact on the environment.
• Energy Conservation: Consider energy conservation during production.
• Waste Generation: Evaluate the extent and effect of waste generated during production.
• Disposal Practices: Consider disposal practices for the product and its container.
• Recycled Materials: Assess the use of waste and recycled materials.
• Recycling Sustainability: Evaluate sustainability for recycling or packaging.
• Biodegradability: Consider the biodegradability of the product.

Functions of Bureau of Indian Standards

• Evaluation and certification of products for the ECO Mark.
• Renewal, suspension, and cancellation of licenses for the ECO Mark.
• Products certified for the ECO Mark must also carry the ISI Mark for quality, safety, and performance, except for leather products.
• Conducting inspections and sampling materials or substances for analysis.

Setbacks

• There are costs and expenses involved in obtaining eco mark labeling.
• There is limited consumer awareness about the eco mark label, and there are instances of fake and vague logos.

Conclusion

• Proper implementation of the eco mark label scheme can significantly contribute to environmental protection by encouraging the production and consumption of eco-friendly products.
• It promotes awareness among manufacturers and consumers about the importance of eco-friendly practices.