EU Commission Amends Ecolabel Criteria for Cosmetic and Animal Care Products

In a recent development, the European Commission has issued Decision (EU) 2023/1540, aimed at amending and correcting the existing EU Ecolabel criteria for cosmetic products and animal care products. The decision, published in the Official Journal of the European Union, addresses various aspects of the criteria to ensure consistent interpretation and implementation.

Industry stakeholders and the EU Ecolabelling Board had expressed concerns about potential inconsistencies arising from certain provisions in Decision (EU) 2021/1870, which established the initial criteria. To address this, Decision (EU) 2023/1540 introduces clearer wording to rectify ambiguities in the interpretation of certain provisions.

Several specific corrections have been outlined in the decision:

• The definition of "active content" within the framework section is clarified, excluding organic rubbing/abrasive agents from the calculation.
• Sub-criterion 4(a)(iii) exemption for zinc compounds in zinc ointment/cream is redefined to align with the requirements of sub-criterion 4(a)(i).
• Clarifications are made to sub-criteria 4(b) and 3(b) to allow listed substances in the final product as impurities.
• Footnotes in Annex I and Annex II are corrected to provide accurate references for applicants of the EU Ecolabel.
• Packaging requirements are amended, specifying that only liquid products must comply with the minimum volume of packaging, in line with existing units.
• Recycling technology advancements have prompted an update in the allowance of certain plastic materials in Ecolabel products.
• Criterion 3 in Annex II will require applicants to submit Safety Data Sheets (SDS) of the final product along with SDSs of any substances or mixtures in the final product.

The amendments and corrections are intended to ensure a consistent and environmentally-friendly approach to cosmetic and animal care products within the EU. The decision will take effect from 26 July 2023.

Link to: EU Commission Decision (EU) 2023/1540 of 25 July 2023 amending and correcting Decision (EU) 2021/1870 establishing EU Ecolabel criteria for cosmetic products and animal care products