Between green logos and appealing claims, it is not always easy to know what to trust. This guide helps you decode environmental labels and certifications, understand what they really cover, and spot signs of credibility. The goal is to buy consciously, without falling into the greenwashing trap.

Decoding eco labels and certifications

An environmental label is a marker awarded based on defined and verified criteria, while a certification confirms that a product, service, or company meets a specific standard. Three main families exist: Type I labels (ISO 14024, multi criteria with third party verification, such as the EU Ecolabel or NF Environnement), Type II self declared claims (ISO 14021, manufacturer claims like “recyclable”), and Type III declarations (ISO 14025, environmental footprint sheets based on life cycle assessment, such as EPD or FDES). Understanding this structure helps you judge how robust a claim is. The more the evaluation is independent, multi criteria, and publicly documented, the higher the confidence can be.

Labels also cover different scopes. Some apply to products and services (EU Ecolabel, Energy Label rated A to G for energy efficiency), others focus on resource management (FSC and PEFC for wood and paper, MSC and ASC for seafood and aquaculture), and others relate to agriculture and food (EU Organic or AB for organic farming, HVE for agro ecological practices, Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance for social and environmental dimensions). In textiles and cosmetics, you will often see GOTS (organic fibers and processing chain), OEKO TEX (chemical safety), Cosmébio and COSMOS (formulas and processes). In construction, frameworks like HQE, BREEAM, or LEED focus on the environmental performance of buildings.

Each label has strengths, limits, and blind spots. The EU Ecolabel assesses several impacts across the life cycle (toxicity, durability, water and energy use), but it is not available for every product category. Organic standards (AB or EU Organic) regulate inputs and many farming practices, without guaranteeing zero residues or a minimal carbon footprint by default. They are standards focused on practices and biodiversity. Traceability labels (FSC, PEFC, MSC, ASC) rely on a chain of custody. Their credibility depends on both the requirements of the standard and the quality of audits and supply chain compliance.

How to choose reliable markers when you buy

Start by clarifying your main impact priority: carbon reduction, biodiversity protection, health and toxicity, circularity, or social conditions. Then match those priorities to the most relevant labels for each product category. For household products, the EU Ecolabel is often a strong option because it is multi criteria and targets performance and lower toxicity. For paper or wood, look for FSC or PEFC with a verified chain of custody. For appliances, check the A to G energy label and, when available, repairability and durability information.

Check credibility: a public standard, independent audits, an identified and accredited certification body, a certificate or license number, and a valid date. Be cautious with vague promises like “100% natural” or “eco responsible” with no third party proof, and with simplistic climate claims like “carbon neutral” when they do not clearly show measurable reductions before any residual offsetting. Choose Type I labels for a quick, multi criteria decision, and use Type III declarations (EPD or FDES) when you need detailed comparisons for technical products or materials.

Adopt a few practical habits. Compare within the same category and read the key criteria instead of trusting the logo alone. Use official sources: the EU Ecolabel catalog, guidance from ADEME on environmental labels, directories of certifiers, and the official sites of labeling organizations such as FSC, MSC, GOTS, and COSMOS. Finally, remember that no label covers every issue. Pairing a reliable marker with smart usage habits (repairing, sharing, extending product life) often has more impact than focusing only on the purchase.

By targeting a few recognized labels, verifying their credibility, and linking them to your impact priorities, you turn each purchase into an informed choice. Labels evolve and standards improve, so keep the habit of checking the source and the scope behind a logo. The best compass remains a mix of restraint, durability, and robust labels suited to what you are buying.