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Blue Angel - Detergents
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Cred­i­bil­i­ty

En­vi­ron­ment

So­cio-E­co­nom­ic

  • Aim/Focus
  • Standard organisation
  • Good to know
The label identifies detergents and cleaning products that have been produced in such a way that they have the least possible impact on the environment and human health during their production, use and disposal. In addition, they should also help to reduce and prevent the risks posed to the environment and human health through the use of hazardous substances and to minimise packaging waste. Preserving natural resources is also an important focus of this environmental label. Cleaning agents with the Blue Angel ecolabel should thus make a contribution to the protection of the environment through the use of renewable raw materials in their production that have been cultivated under sustainable conditions or which support sustainable cultivation.
The standard is issued by the Federal Ministry for the Environment. The Federal Environment Agency provides the Blue Angel office and develops the criteria. The independent Eco-label Jury decides on the criteria. RAL GmbH, a subsidiary of German Institute for Quality Assurance and Certification, awards the Blue Angel.
There are three different standards in the field of detergents and cleaning agents. This analysis is based on the award criteria for detergents (DE-UZ 202).
Information about scheme documents

Below is a list of documents and policies that were used in the collection of the scheme data:

Basic Award Criteria (PDF) Application Documents (ZIP) To apply (RAL portal)

Cred­i­bil­i­ty 80%

  • Availability of Scheme Structure
  • Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
  • Availability of Standard
  • Public Consultation of Standard
  • Standard Review
  • Scheme Legal Status
  • Sources of Finance
  • Standard-Setting Process
  • Assessment Methodology
  • Sustainability Goals and Objectives of the Scheme
  • Key Issues
  • Stakeholder Feedback
  • Consistent Interpretation
  • Scheme Accessibility
  • Assurance Provider Complaints and Appeals Mechanism
  • Assessment Reports Availability
  • Scope and Duration of Certificate / License
  • Certified or Verified Enterprise / Labelled Product List
  • Accredited/ Approved Assurance Providers
  • Independent Conformity Assessment
  • Consistent Decision-Making on Conformity
  • Procedure on Non-Conformities
  • Claims and Labelling Policy
  • Scheme Management
    17/17
    • Governance
      12/12
      • Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure publicly available, including composition of governance bodies?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (0 points)
        • Yes publicly (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • Is the scheme owner a legal entity, or an organization that is a partnership of legal entities, or a government or inter-governmental agency?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Is there a mechanism for stakeholders to participate in scheme development and decision-making?
        Answer: Yes available publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes available publicly (2 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • Do the voting procedures of the top decision-making body ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests, where no single interest predominates?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • No (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner have an internal quality management system available?
        Answer: Yes (on request)
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
    • Impact
      3/3
      • Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Complaints Mechanism
      1/1
      • Does the scheme owner have a publicly available and easily accessible complaints mechanism?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Supporting Strategies
      1/1
      • Does the scheme implement strategies or activities to support improved performance of participating enterprises, e.g. capacity building, access to finance?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
  • Standard-Setting
    11/11
    • Is the standard made publicly available free of charge?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (0 points)
      • Yes publicly (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
    • Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector where the scheme operates or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Is the standard-setting procedure or a summary of the process for how stakeholders can engage in standard-setting made publicly available?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (0 points)
      • Yes publicly (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
    • Can stakeholders participate in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: All stakeholders
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Members only (1 point)
      • Invitation only (1 point)
      • All stakeholders (2 points)
    • Are stakeholders who are directly affected by the standard provided opportunities to participate in standard setting?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability through the development and revision processes?
      Answer: Not applicable
      Possible answers
      • Yes (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
      • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Does the scheme owner provide information on how the input received from consultations has been included in the final version of the standard?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)
    • Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
      Answer: Not applicable
      Possible answers
      • Yes (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
      • Not applicable (0 points)
  • Assurance
    38/55
    • Assurance System
      16/18
      • Is there a publicly available documented assessment methodology for assurance providers to assess conformity with the standard?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (0 points)
        • Yes publicly available (1 point)
      • Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner provide information on assessment fees or require this of assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have an easily accessible complaints and appeals mechanism?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner make, or require assurance providers to make a summary of certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (no reports) (0 points)
        • No (confidential) (1 point)
        • Yes (on request) (2 points)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance and duration for which it is valid?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain or require assurance providers to maintain a publicly accessible list of certified or verified enterprises, or a list of verified products/product groups, or a list of members (in case of membership-based initiatives)?
        Answer: Yes incl. scope of certificate or license
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain a current and publicly available list of all accredit-ed/approved/suspended assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes (publicly)
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (0 points)
        • Yes (publicly) (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner review the effectiveness of their assurance system on a periodic basis?
        Answer: Annual
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Annual (1 point)
        • Every 3 years (1 point)
        • Every 5 years (1 point)
        • Ad hoc (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme require performance improvements over time to maintain certification?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for assurance providers that are assessing chain of custody?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • yes publicly available (2 points)
        • yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to report to them on complaints received and, on the actions, taken to resolve the issue?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain an information management system?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Has the scheme specified equivalence requirements for any other scheme assurance results it recognises?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Conformity Assessment
      14/16
      • Conformity Assessment Process
        4/4
        • Does the scheme require a third-party conformity assessment of all clients for compliance with its standard?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (2 points)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner define requirements for decision-making to ensure that assurance providers use consistent procedures for determining the conformity of clients or laboratory testing results with the standard?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have a procedure in place for how clients are required to address non-conformities, including when a certificate or license is suspended or revoked?
          Answer: yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • yes (1 point)
      • Sustainability Audits
        7/9
        • Does the scheme owner have a documented oversight approach that requires assurance providers to be accredited or compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025 (for laboratories) requirements, or alternatively to be compliant with the relevant ISEAL Assurance Code requirements?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require that clients are audited on a regular, recurring basis?
          Answer: 4-5 years
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • 1 year or less (1 point)
          • 1-2 years (1 point)
          • 2-3 years (1 point)
          • 4-5 years (1 point)
          • 5 years or more (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is the frequency or intensity of an audit or oversight assessment based on a risk assessment of the client or assurance provider?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner specify the required intensity for each type of audit and the activities that must be carried out by assurance providers for each of its standards?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner allow or require assurance providers to do unannounced audits?
          Answer: Not allowed
          Score: 0/2
          Possible answers
          • Allowed (1 point)
          • Required (2 points)
          • Not allowed (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Are auditors and assessors required to seek external stakeholder input during the audit and oversight assessment process?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to follow a consistent report format?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers and oversight bodies use competent and impartial personnel (other than auditor/assessor/ team) to make decisions on compliance?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Group Certification
        0/0
        • Is the group required to have a shared management system with clear responsibilities for implementation of the system?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner have a mechanism that prescribes and justifies how all sites within a group certification will be audited over time?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a sample size formula and sampling approach to determine the number of group members that is externally verified and how the sample is chosen?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Yes based on risk assessment (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Do the requirements on group certification/verification define the conditions under which a group member shall be suspended or removed from a group?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Member suspended from certification (1 point)
          • Member removed from a group (1 point)
          • Group suspension (1 point)
          • No repercussion (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Chain of Custody
        0/0
        • Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
          Answer: Not applicable
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Laboratory Testing
        3/3
        • In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
          Answer: Yes publicly
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (on request) (1 point)
          • Yes publicly (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the conformity monitoring?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a procedure to deal with non-conforming products manufactured by a client / licensee?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Assessor/ Auditor Competencies
      1/8
      • Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance provider auditors successfully complete auditor training on a standard that is relevant to the scheme and that is based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance and oversight providers implement a programme to monitor and ensure the continued competence and good performance of assessors and auditors?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner carry out or require assurance providers to carry out calibration activities to ensure that assessors /auditors are aligned?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Annually (2 points)
        • Ad Hoc (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers have a Code of Conduct, or equivalent, and supporting procedures to guide behaviour and actions of assurance providers' personnel and to address misconduct
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner assess potential risks to auditor / assessor impartiality and where warranted, do they require assurance providers and oversight bodies to implement practices to mitigate these risks?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Accreditation / Oversight
      7/13
      • Does the scheme require an oversight mechanism and is it documented?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
      • Is oversight conducted by a third party independent of the scheme owner and assurance providers?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme define the nature and intensity of oversight activities on assurance providers?
        Answer: <1 year
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • <1 year (2 points)
        • 1 year (2 points)
        • 2-3 years (2 points)
        • 4-5 years (1 point)
        • >5 years (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
        • None (0 points)
      • Does the intensity of oversight activities take account of risk factors associated with the assurance providers and their personnel?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner clearly define the application and selection process for assurance providers?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner assess scheme-specific competence when accepting assurance providers that are accredited to other relevant standards (proxy accreditation)?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Yes assess scheme-specific competence (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have or require oversight providers to have documented and accessible complaints and appeals mechanisms?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner define or request that oversight providers define how assurance providers have to address non-conformities raised through oversight?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that summaries of oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) are made publicly available?
        Answer: Yes (on request)
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that on-site assessments of assurance providers are included in the oversight cycle?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require that oversight includes reviews of assurance provider performance in the field?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
  • Claims & Traceability
    4/4
    • Traceability
      0/0
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements that apply to the full supply chain?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to verify that all enterprises within the chain maintain accurate and accessible records that allow any certified product or batch of products to be traceable from the point of sale to the buyer?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Claims & Labelling
      4/4
      • Does the scheme owner have documented requirements for the use of its symbols, logos and/or claims related to its scheme and make them publicly available?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not Applicable (0 points)
      • Do claims requirements specify the types of claims that can be made for different types of CoC models, where the scheme owner allows for more than one model?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
        Answer: Not applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims and do they also require this of their assurance providers?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)

En­vi­ron­ment 72%

  • Aquatic Toxicity
  • Biodegradability of Substances
  • Chemicals harmful to human health
  • Quantity of Packaging
  • Recyclability of Packaging Material
  • Consumer information regarding sustainable use and disposal of product
  • Chemicals
    12/12
    • Chemical Use
      12/12
      • Does the standard include criteria on chemicals listed on the REACH Candidate List as substances of very high concern?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3 Requirements [...] The substance requirements defined by Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004 (Detergents Regulation, DetVO)6 on detergents and the CLP Regulation (Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008)7 are observed. 3.6 General exclusion of substances with certain properties The use of the following substances is not permitted in order to protect the environment and human health. In the case of mixtures e.g. fragrances where it is not possible to obtain information about the individual substances, the classification rules for mixtures shall be applied. a) Substances of very high concern (SVHC) 1) Substances in end products labelled with the Blue Angel ecolabel that have been identified in accordance with Article 57 of Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 and listed in accordance with Article 59 of the same regulation on the list of candidates9 for inclusion on the Annex of substances subject to authorisation and have a concentration of ≥ 0.0010 % are not permitted. Impurities in substances added to the end product that correspond to the above named criteria are not permitted. The label holder is obligated to take into account current developments on the list of candidates. 2) This requirement also applies to substances, which are classified on the ECHA website under https://echa.europa.eu/de/information-on-chemicals/registered-substances on the infocard for the substance under “Properties of concern” as suspected PBT, C, M, R, ED or POP. As an exception to section 1), the use of such suspected substances in end products labelled with the Blue Angel ecolabel that have a concentration of ≥ 0.10 % is not permitted. The label holder is obligated to take into account current developments on the list of candidates and the latest publications by the ECHA. 6 Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on detergents 7 Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 concerning the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures

        Referenzdokumente:

        3 Requirements 3.6 General exclusion of substances with certain properties

      • Does the standard include criteria on ready biodegradability of substances?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor and restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.4.1 Biodegradability of surfactants All of the surfactants contained in the end product must be readily biodegradable8 under aerobic conditions and biodegradable under anaerobic conditions. 3.4.2 Biodegradability of synthetic polymers All of the synthetic polymers in the end product must be at least inherently biodegradable under aerobic conditions. The following polymers are exempt from this rule: carboxymethyl cellulose and dye transfer inhibitors made of PVP, PVOH, PVP/VI, PVNO or PVNO/PVPI. 3.4.3 Biodegradability of organic substances The content of aerobically not readily biodegradable (aNBO) and anaerobically non-biodegradable (anNBO) organic substances in the product must not exceed the following limits for the reference dosage (information in g/kg laundry).

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.4 Biodegradability

      • Does the standard include criteria on H statements?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use by e.g. a risk based approach (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.1.1 Measurement thresholds Every substance that exceeds a concentration of 0.010 % by mass in the final formulation must comply with these Basic Award Criteria. This also applies to the raw materials used in the product, any listed additives and impurities. In the case of substances dealt with by the following criteria, a deviating measurement threshold of 0.0010 % by mass in the final formulation applies: • 3.4 Biodegradability • 3.5 Toxicity to aquatic organisms • 3.6 a) Substances of very high concern (SVHC) Paragraph 1) • 3.7 Exclusion of substances • 3.8 Requirements for specific substances In the case of substances dealt with by the following criteria, a deviating measurement threshold of 0.10 % by mass in the final formulation applies: • 3.6 a) Substances of very high concern (SVHC) Paragraph 2) There is no lower measurement threshold for colouring agents. Table 1: Overview of the measurement thresholds for the requirement criteria 3.6 b) General exclusion of substances with certain properties – b) Substances classified with the H-phrases listed in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 3.6 General exclusion of substances with certain properties The use of the following substances is not permitted in order to protect the environment and human health. In the case of mixtures e.g. fragrances where it is not possible to obtain information about the individual substances, the classification rules for mixtures shall be applied. b) Substances which according to the criteria of Regulation (EC) No 1272/200810 are assigned the following H Phrases named in Table 2 or which meet the criteria for such classification. Table 2: Restrictive hazard classifications and their assignment to the categories [...]

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.1.1 Measurement thresholds 3.6 General exclusion of substances with certain properties

      • Does the scheme include criteria on other substances which have impact on human health and the environment?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.1.1 Measurement thresholds Every substance that exceeds a concentration of 0.010 % by mass in the final formulation must comply with these Basic Award Criteria. This also applies to the raw materials used in the product, any listed additives and impurities. In the case of substances dealt with by the following criteria, a deviating measurement threshold of 0.0010 % by mass in the final formulation applies: • 3.4 Biodegradability • 3.5 Toxicity to aquatic organisms • 3.6 a) Substances of very high concern (SVHC) Paragraph 1) • 3.7 Exclusion of substances • 3.8 Requirements for specific substances In the case of substances dealt with by the following criteria, a deviating measurement threshold of 0.10 % by mass in the final formulation applies: • 3.6 a) Substances of very high concern (SVHC) Paragraph 2) 3.4.2 Biodegradability of synthetic polymers All of the synthetic polymers in the end product must be at least inherently biodegradable under aerobic conditions. The following polymers are exempt from this rule: carboxymethyl cellulose and dye transfer inhibitors made of PVP, PVOH, PVP/VI, PVNO or PVNO/PVPI. 3.7 Exclusion of substances The following substances are not permitted in the end product, either as part of the formulation or as part of any preparation included in the formulation: • Halogenated hydrocarbons 3.8.3 Colouring agents The end product must not contain any colouring agents that are bioaccumulating. A colouring agent is considered to be non-bioaccumulating if it has a bioconcentration factor (BCF) < 100 or a log Pow < 3.0. If the values for both the BCF and the log Pow are available, the highest measurement for the BCF is valid. If using colouring agents that have been approved for use in foodstuffs, no documentation about the bioconcentration factor needs to be submitted.

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.1.1 Measurement thresholds 3.4.2 Biodegradability of synthetic polymers 3.7 Exclusion of substances 3.8.3 Colouring agents

      • Does the standard include criteria on limitations of aquatic toxicity of the product?
        Answer: Advanced: Definition of a product specific critical dilution volume
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Limitation of aquatic toxicity (1 point)
        • Advanced: Definition of a product specific critical dilution volume (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        The critical dilution volume toxicity (CDVchronic) is calculated for each substance (i) using the following equation: [...] where the weight(i) is the weight of the substance (in grams) in the recommended dosage. DF(i) is the degradation factor and TFchronic(i) is the value for the chronic toxicity of the substance (in milligrams/litre). The parameters DF and TFchronic shall be taken from Part A of the Detergent Ingredient Database (DID list) (Appendix). If the substance in question is not included in Part A of the DID list, the applicant shall estimate the values in accordance with the approach stated in Part B of the DID list (Appendix). The sum of CDVchronic for the individual substances gives the CDV chronic for the end product.

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.5 Toxicity to aquatic organisms

      • Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of microplastic?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        The following substances are not permitted in the end product, either as part of the formulation or as part of any preparation included in the formulation: [...] • Microplastics

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.7 Exclusion of substances

      • Does the standard include criteria on the limited use of propellants?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        "(…) Excluded from the scope of these Basic Award Criteria are: (...) - Sprays that contain propellant gas."

        Referenzdokumente:

        2 Scope

  • Water
    0/2
    • Water use
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time (1 point)
        • Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency (2 points)
  • Inputs
    4/4
    • Packaging
      4/4
      • Does the standard include criteria on the quantity of packaging?
        Answer: Advanced: Defined calculations to measure the quantity of packaging
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: General requirement to minimize the amount of material used (1 point)
        • Advanced: Defined calculations to measure the quantity of packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.12 Packaging requirements a) If the product is delivered in packaging that is part of a take-back system (return and refill) for a product, the product is exempt from the requirements specified in b), e) and g). b) The weight utility ratio (WUR) of the sales packaging must not exceed the following values: [...] Sales packaging consisting of more than 80 % recycled post-consumer materials are exempt from this requirement. Undiluted products in packaging designed for the sole purpose of refilling trigger sprays must meet the packaging requirements for ready-to-use products. The WUR is only calculated for the sales packaging (including caps, stoppers and hand pumps/spraying devices and label) based on the following formula: WUR = Σ((Wi +Ui) / (Di * Ri)) Key for the calculation formula: Wi: the weight [g] of the sales packaging (i) Ui: the weight [g] of non-recycled materials in the sales packaging (i). Ui = Wi, unless the applicant can verify a different number Di: the number of reference doses in the sales packaging (i). In the case of ready-to-use products, Di = product volume (in litres); Ri: recycling figure. Ri = 1 (if the packaging is not reused for the same purpose) or Ri = 2 (if the applicant can verify that the packaging components are used for the same purpose and he/she sells refill packs). c) Packaging, sleeves, labels or components made of halogenated polymers, e.g. PVC, are not permitted. d) Paper/cardboard used in the sales packaging must be manufactured using at least 80 % recycled materials. In the case of secondary packaging that also serves as transport packaging, the proportion of recycled materials must be at least 70 %. Packaging materials are considered recycled if product waste (post-consumer waste) has been subjected to a material recycling process. e) Sales packaging (bottles, canisters) made of PET must be manufactured using at least 70 % PCR plastic (recycled plastic made from post-consumer waste), other plastics (e.g. HDPE) at least 50% PCR. All closures and trigger closures (e.g. removable closures and pump dosers) and foil bags are exempt from this rule. If the recycled content is stated on the packaging, this must refer to the total weight (body, closure, label/sleeve and trigger closure). In addition, a statement may be added that relates to certain parts of the packaging (e.g. may be stated together: 100% PCR related to body, xy % PCR related to total packaging). f) Products offered as trigger sprays: Trigger spray bottles must be refillable and recyclable. g) Recycling-oriented design (recyclability) The packaging must be designed so that it has a sorting and recycling infrastructure in the sense of the “Minimum standard for determining the recyclability of packaging subject to system participation pursuant to Section 21 (3) VerpackG (Verpackungsgesetz – Packaging Act)”14 (see Section 4.1 in conjunction with the Appendix 1). It must be possible to sort and separate the packaging in the sense of the minimum standards (see Section 4.2 in conjunction with Appendix 2) and it is not permitted in the sense of the minimum standards to use any material combinations or substances that could impede successful recycling (see Section 4.3 in conjunction with Appendix 3). The minimum standard14 at the time of application applies. No individual or combination of materials or components listed in Table 3 may be contained in the sales packaging. Pump mechanisms (including in sprays) are exempt from this requirement. Table 3: Materials and components that are excluded from use as a packaging component [...]

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.12 Packaging requirements

      • Does the standard include criteria on the packaging material in order to facilitate recycling?
        Answer: Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Either recyclability of packaging material OR the use of recycled material in packaging (1 point)
        • Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.12 Packaging requirements a) If the product is delivered in packaging that is part of a take-back system (return and refill) for a product, the product is exempt from the requirements specified in b), e) and g). b) The weight utility ratio (WUR) of the sales packaging must not exceed the following values: Solid laundry detergent (e.g. powder) 1.2 g/kg laundry Liquid or gel laundry detergent 1.2 g/kg laundry Stain remover 1.2 g/kg laundry Laundry detergent booster 1.2 g/kg laundry Sales packaging consisting of more than 80 % recycled post-consumer materials are exempt from this requirement. Undiluted products in packaging designed for the sole purpose of refilling trigger sprays must meet the packaging requirements for ready-to-use products. The WUR is only calculated for the sales packaging (including caps, stoppers and hand pumps/spraying devices and label) based on the following formula: WUR = Σ((Wi +Ui) / (Di * Ri)) Key for the calculation formula: Wi: the weight [g] of the sales packaging (i) Ui: the weight [g] of non-recycled materials in the sales packaging (i). Ui = Wi, unless the applicant can verify a different number Di: the number of reference doses in the sales packaging (i). In the case of ready-to-use products, Di = product volume (in litres); Ri: recycling figure. Ri = 1 (if the packaging is not reused for the same purpose) or Ri = 2 (if the applicant can verify that the packaging components are used for the same purpose and he/she sells refill packs). c) Packaging, sleeves, labels or components made of halogenated polymers, e.g. PVC, are not permitted. d) Paper/cardboard used in the sales packaging must be manufactured using at least 80 % recycled materials. In the case of secondary packaging that also serves as transport packaging, the proportion of recycled materials must be at least 70 %. Packaging materials are considered recycled if product waste (post-consumer waste) has been subjected to a material recycling process. e) Sales packaging (bottles, canisters) made of PET must be manufactured using at least 70 % PCR plastic (recycled plastic made from post-consumer waste), other plastics (e.g. HDPE) at least 50% PCR. All closures and trigger closures (e.g. removable closures and pump dosers) and foil bags are exempt from this rule. If the recycled content is stated on the packaging, this must refer to the total weight (body, closure, label/sleeve and trigger closure). In addition, a statement may be added that relates to certain parts of the packaging (e.g. may be stated together: 100% PCR related to body, xy % PCR related to total packaging). f) Products offered as trigger sprays: Trigger spray bottles must be refillable and recyclable. g) Recycling-oriented design (recyclability) The packaging must be designed so that it has a sorting and recycling infrastructure in the sense of the “Minimum standard for determining the recyclability of packaging subject to system participation pursuant to Section 21 (3) VerpackG (Verpackungsgesetz – Packaging Act)”14 (see Section 4.1 in conjunction with the Appendix 1). It must be possible to sort and separate the packaging in the sense of the minimum standards (see Section 4.2 in conjunction with Appendix 2) and it is not permitted in the sense of the minimum standards to use any material combinations or substances that could impede successful recycling (see Section 4.3 in conjunction with Appendix 3). The minimum standard14 at the time of application applies. No individual or combination of materials or components listed in Table 3 may be contained in the sales packaging. Pump mechanisms (including in sprays) are exempt from this requirement. Table 3: Materials and components that are excluded from use as a packaging component [...]

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.12 Packaging requirements

  • Energy & Climate
    0/2
    • Climate Change Mitigation
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
        • Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)
  • Waste and Air Pollution
    1/2
    • Waste Management
      1/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic (0 points)
        • Advanced: Reduction of volumes of waste (1 point)
      • Does the scheme include criteria on consumer information on the sustainable use and disposal of the product?
        Answer: Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Information provided to consumers on the disposal of the product (0 points)
        • Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.13 Consumer information 3.13.1 Advertising claims If the product is classified and labelled as hazardous to human health according to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008, advertising claims such as “less environmentally damaging”, “less hazardous to water”, “less hazardous substances” or comparable statements which could be considered to play down the risks are prohibited. 3.13.2 Dosage instructions a) Dosage instructions for laundry detergents The recommended dosages shall be stated for “lightly”, “normally” and “heavily” soiled laundry and the different water hardness levels, as well as the weight of the laundry per load. The reference dosage used for the washing performance test and the evaluation of compliance with the environmental criteria for the ingredients for heavy-duty laundry detergents and colour-safe laundry detergents must be the same as the recommended dosage on the packaging for “normally soiled” laundry at a water hardness level of 2.5 mmol CaCO3/l. The reference dosage used for the washing performance test and the evaluation of compliance with the environmental criteria for the ingredients for low-duty laundry detergents must be the same as the recommended dosage on the packaging for “lightly soiled” laundry at a water hardness level of 2.5 mmol CaCO3/l. A dosing aid must be provided free of charge on request for laundry detergents that need to be measured out by the end consumer. If the dosing aid is not enclosed with every packaging unit or it cannot be stocked at the retail outlet, it must be possible to request it via a free hotline, via email or via the Internet and the subsequent delivery must be completed free of charge. b) Dosage instructions for laundry detergent boosters The recommended dosages shall be stated for “normally” and “heavily” soiled laundry per 4.5 kg load of dry laundry. The reference dosage used for the washing performance test and the evaluation of compliance with the environmental criteria for the ingredients for laundry detergent boosters must be the same as the recommended dosage on the packaging for “normally soiled” laundry. A dosing aid must be provided free of charge on request for laundry detergent boosters that need to be measured out by the end consumer. If the dosing aid is not enclosed with every packaging unit or it cannot be stocked at the retail outlet, it must be possible to request it via a free hotline, via email or via the Internet and the subsequent delivery must be completed free of charge. 3.13.3 Information on the packaging a) The type of enzyme contained in the product must be stated on the packaging. b) The packaging must also contain the following or comparable instructions:  Wash at the lowest possible temperature.  Fill the drum with maximum possible load for the type of textile.  Dose the laundry detergent according to the level of soiling and the level of water hardness, follow the dosage instructions to achieve the best possible washing performance with the least amount of detergent.  Instructions on where information about water hardness can be found. c) The primary packaging must contain information on reuse, recycling and the proper disposal of the packaging. d) Information on obtaining a dosage aid (if relevant) Only the information stated in a), c) and d) is required for laundry detergent boosters and stain removers.

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.13.3 Information on the packaging

  • Environmental Management
    0/2
    • Does the standard include criteria on environmental policy or management instruments (like EMAS or ISO 14001)?
      Answer: No Information available
      Degree of Obligation: Not covered
      Score: 0/2
      Possible answers
      • Basic: Verification (self-declaration) of final manufacturing plant (1 point)
      • Advanced: Certification (third party) of final manufacturing plant (2 points)
  • Quality
    1/1
    • Quality and Suitability
      1/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the fitness for use of the product for the intended purpose?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers

        Excerpt from standard:

        3.11 Fitness for use The end product must be fit for use and meet the requirements of the consumer. To ensure that this is the case, the tests for assessing the product's fitness for use described in Appendix C must be carried out. Appendix C Fitness for use of laundry detergents The method for testing the fitness for use of laundry detergents or stain removers corresponds to the requirements and criteria in the “Revised EU Ecolabel protocol for testing laundry detergents“. https://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/products-groups-and-criteria.html https://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/documents/fitness_performance_LD_2021_06_07.pdf (Information on the dose of the pre-wash stain remover must be added somewhere. Mrs. Ophüls will propose the amendment) The method for testing the fitness for use of laundry detergent boosters corresponds to the requirements and criteria in the “Nordic Ecolabelling for Laundry Detergents and Stain Removers; Version 8.2 • 19 December 2019 – 31 December 2024”. https://www.nordic-ecolabel.org/product-groups/group/?productGroupCode=006 https://www.nordic-ecolabel.org/product-groups/group/DownloadDocument/?documentId=5528

        Referenzdokumente:

        3.11 Fitness for use Appendix C Fitness for use of laundry detergents


So­cio-E­co­nom­ic 0%

  • Verification of Core Labour Standards along the Supply Chain
  • Equal Opportunities
  • CSR Strategy
  • Labour Rights and Working Conditions
    0/4
    • ILO Core Conventions
      0/4
      • Does the standard require compliance with (at least) all ILO core labour standards for different suppliers along the supply chain?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Main tier 1 suppliers (1 point)
        • Advanced: All tier 1 suppliers (2 points)
      • Does the standard include criteria on occupational health and safety, as defined in ILO 155?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Partial compliance with ILO 155 (1 point)
        • Advanced: Full compliance with ILO 155 (2 points)
  • Business Practice and Ethical Issues
    0/2
    • Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
      0/1
      • Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
    • Corruption and Bribery
      0/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the prevention of corruption and bribery?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Corruption and bribery is prohibited (1 point)
        • Advanced (0 points)
  • Company Responsibility
    0/7
    • Company Responsibility in Europe
      0/5
      • Does the standard require the implementation of measures that aim at generating equal economic opportunities for women and men?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
      • Does the standard require the definition of a company-wide CSR strategy?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: A CSR strategy is defined (1 point)
        • Advanced: CSR strategy is publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the standard include criteria on community engagement?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
      • Does the standard include requirements on measures that aim at managing demographic change?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
    • Impact Assessment
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
        Answer: No Information available
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Human Rights Impact Assessment OR Social Impact Assessment (1 point)
        • Advanced: Human Rights Impact Assessment AND Social Impact Assessment (2 points)

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Cultivation of renewable raw materials (e.g. palm oil) and/or extraction and production of ingredients

Manufacturing

Production of detergents and cleaning agents by the mixing of various ingredients (vegetable or petroleum-based)

Transportation / distribution

Transport routes from one production stage to the next and to end users

Products use and consumption

Usage of detergents and cleaning agents

End-of-life

Proper disposal of packaging along with degradability and toxicity of the product (in water) after its use