Ecolabels for Office Supplies: Blue Angel, FSC, PEFC, and EU Ecolabel Explained

Ecolabels help companies better identify more sustainable products. However, they do not replace the question of whether a product truly meets the need. Labels can be an important guide, especially for paper, hygiene, cleaning, packaging, and office organization.

Blue Angel

The Blue Angel is the German ecolabel and is awarded for various product groups. For office supplies, it is particularly relevant in connection with recycled paper and environmentally friendly products. Source: Blue Angel – The German Ecolabel.

FSC and PEFC

FSC and PEFC provide guidance for products made from wood and paper raw materials. They can be relevant for paper, cardboard, folders, or packaging materials. PEFC provides information on its official website about the certification of sustainable forest management. Source: PEFC Germany.

EU Ecolabel

The EU Ecolabel is the voluntary ecolabel of the European Union. It aims to identify products and services with a proven lower environmental impact throughout their life cycle. Source: European Commission – EU Ecolabel.

What Companies Should Look For

• Which product group is being evaluated?
• Is the ecolabel relevant for the intended use?
• Does it contain recycled content or certified raw materials?
• Does the quality suit daily work?
• Can the item be permanently used as a standard?

Conclusion

Ecolabels are a good guide, but not a substitute for practical product selection. Wiepa helps categorize suitable alternatives and structure them effectively in procurement. Read more: Sustainable Procurement for Office Supplies and Office Provisions.