[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.18.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201dIntro and list 1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d6px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.18.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/longtimelabel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Les-10-criteres-de-robustesse-dun-label-durabilite.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dGreenwashing: Definition, Impacts and Solutions by LONGTIME\u201d title_text=\u201d10 robust criteria for a sustainability label\u201d align=\u201dcenter\u201d admin_label=\u201dImage\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d|||14px||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||10px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n
Sustainability labels play a crucial role in meeting today\u2019s environmental and social challenges. They help consumers to make informed choices and encourage companies and their brands to develop products with a lower life-cycle impact, in particular by adopting more responsible practices that help to reduce premature waste. <\/span><\/p>\n On this subject, the Green Claims Directive is a new proposal for a European directive designed to regulate the use of environmental claims on products, including labelling programmes, and thus combat greenwashing practices, to stop the profusion of ecological messages and those linked to respect for the environment, and to make the \u2018fair\u2019 truly sustainable.<\/span><\/p>\n In addition to the Green Claims Directive, the International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labeling Alliance (ISEAL) has focused more specifically on sustainability standards. To guarantee the image and effectiveness of these programmes, ISEAL has established 10 robustness criteria: <\/span><\/p>\n Fora sustainability label to be truly effective and credible, it must meet a set of robust criteria. <\/span><\/p>\n A \u201cdurability label\u201d refers to a certification or mark awarded to a product, a product range or a company, indicating its commitment to sustainable practices across environmental, social and economic dimensions. This definition has yet to be clarified in the Green Claims Directive or in related regulatory developments. Writing a demanding sustainability standard is not restricted to a particular product category. Organic food, textiles, outdoor furniture ranges, electrical or electronic equipment, sporting goods and sport tech\u2014products and brands of all types have access to certification schemes covering quality and all aspects of sustainability. <\/span><\/p>\n In this article, we will explore these 10 criteria , which can be used to make a fairly detailed assessment of the credibility and relevance of a sustainability label, whether in France, Europe or elsewhere in the world.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Above all, a sustainability label must make a difference where it counts. <\/span><\/p>\n It must generate positive social, environmental and economic impacts while eliminating or addressing negative ones. To achieve this, it must clearly define its scope, its specific sustainability objectives, and its strategy for meeting these objectives\u2014also known as its theory of change. <\/span><\/p>\n The label must focus on the most significant impacts within its scope and aim to address the root causes of sustainability issues. This often requires challenging the production model of the products covered by the label.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d1_2,1_2\u2033 admin_label=\u201dH2 court avec image\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d2px||28px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/longtimelabel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Conformite-Label-LONGTIME\u00ae.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dnormes esps LONGTIME Extending the lifespan of consumer goods by improving their quality, reliability and repairability helps reduce the environmental impact of raw material extraction linked to product manufacturing and prevents the premature accumulation of waste\u2014thereby significantly lowering the overall environmental footprint associated with the consumption of goods. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201dH2 et H3 + H4 en bullet point\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d2px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d custom_css_free_form=\u201dselector ul {padding: 1px 1px;}||selector ul {margin: 1px 1px;}\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n A sustainability label cannot operate effectively in isolation from other stakeholders. It must collaborate with governments, businesses, and civil society organisations working towards shared sustainability goals. It should actively seek alignment and respectful cooperation with others, build partnerships, and share acquired knowledge to enhance its effectiveness and both its direct and systemic impact. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n The LONGTIME\u00ae label works with many partners<\/a> and participates in numerous working groups with the government, the UN and other organisations on issues such as reparability and sustainability indices.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row admin_label=\u201dH2 et H3 + H4 en bullet point\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d2px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_5_text_color=\u201d#494949\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d||6px|||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d custom_css_free_form=\u201dselector ul {padding: 1px 1px;}||selector ul {margin: 1px 1px;}\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n The label must create value for all stakeholders involved. It should strive to generate value that fairly rewards the efforts and resources required from users to participate in the system\u2014this is often referred to as the fair trade or equitable trade dimension. It must also support users in implementing their tools and empower them to take action by presenting a clear rationale for engaging with the system. <\/span><\/p>\n The LONGTIME\u00ae label\u2019s fee system is designed to suit all budgets, as fees are calculated as a percentage of the turnover of the labelled product. LONGTIME\u00ae also provides manufacturers with support tools to help them prepare for the audit, tailored to all types of organisations. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_5_text_color=\u201d#494949\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d custom_css_free_form=\u201dselector ul {padding: 1px 1px;}||selector ul {margin: 1px 1px;}\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n A sustainability label must demonstrate the difference it makes. It should have relevant tools to achieve its sustainability objectives and to measure progress towards these objectives over time. Data collection and analysis are essential to measure, understand, and demonstrate the progress made by users in meeting these goals. <\/span><\/p>\n LONGTIME\u00ae is currently conducting an impact study with the support of a professional organisation in the sector. Tangible and measurable progress is already visible, as shown by the growing number of labelled products. Based on a study by ADEME, we have estimated that the LONGTIME\u00ae Label could save around 1 million tonnes of CO\u2082 per year within the next 10 years. This is equivalent to the annual CO\u2082 emissions of 448,000 homes powered by electricity. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n Stakeholder engagement is essential. The label must be inclusive and non-discriminatory, allowing stakeholders to participate in decision-making and to hold the system to account. It should involve a balanced and diverse group of stakeholders in decisions that affect them, ensuring an understanding of the contexts and perspectives of under-engaged or under-represented stakeholders. Furthermore, it must provide clear and transparent feedback on stakeholder input and concerns, while having fair mechanisms in place to address complaints and resolve conflicts. <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\u201d1_2,1_2\u2033 admin_label=\u201dH2 court avec image\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d2px||28px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/longtimelabel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Partenaires-labellises-LONGTIME\u00ae.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dnormes esps LONGTIME Joining the circle of LONGTIME\u00ae-labelled companies means becoming part of a dynamic community centred on sustainability, through webinars, newsletters, and regular consultation processes. Our partnerships with expert and repair professionals, along with our membership in networks and organisations such as RREUSE and ECOS, place us at the heart of sustainability-related activity and enable us to contribute to this collective momentum. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_5_text_color=\u201d#494949\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d custom_css_free_form=\u201dselector ul {padding: 1px 1px;}||selector ul {margin: 1px 1px;}\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Transparency is a fundamental element of the credibility and reputation of sustainability standards. Key information must be made publicly available, while protecting confidential and private data. Stakeholders must have access to the information they need to understand and assess the system\u2019s processes, decision-making, outcomes, and impacts. <\/span><\/p>\n The Reference Framework<\/a> detailing all the criteria included in our label\u2019s standard is publicly accessible on our website. In addition, our website features a dedicated transparency<\/a> page that provides in-depth information about the principles and operations of our label, in line with the Green Claims Directive. This ensures that consumers have direct access to all relevant information about the label and the services linked to our work. It also reinforces the credibility of our environmental claim regarding durability. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n A credible label must be impartial and avoid or mitigate conflicts of interest throughout its governance and operations, particularly when assessing the performance of its users. Transparency and stakeholder engagement help to ensure the integrity of the scheme. <\/span><\/p>\n The LONGTIME\u00ae label is awarded following validation of compliance with the criteria on site by a third-party audit carried out by one of LONGTIME\u00ae \u2018 s independent partner certification bodies.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_5_text_color=\u201d#494949\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d||0px|||\u201d custom_css_free_form=\u201dselector ul {padding: 1px 1px;}||selector ul {margin: 1px 1px;}\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Reliability is crucial for a sustainability label. It must provide reliable assessments of the performance of its users, designing tools for consistent implementation and evaluation. The assessments of user performance must be competent and accurate, supporting all the declarations authorised by the label. <\/span><\/p>\n The LONGTIME\u00ae label criteria are based on robust and scientifically recognised standards and studies relating to the repairability and reliability of products: EN 45552 and EN 45554 standards, the PROMPT and FIDES methods , among others. Third-party audits are carried out by trained and competent personnel. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n Claims and communications made by a credible label must be trustworthy. All claims made by the label or its users must be clear, relevant, and verifiable. They should enable customers and other stakeholders to make informed choices, and the data and evidence supporting claims related to sustainability impacts must be publicly accessible. <\/span><\/p>\n The LONGTIME\u00ae label complies with all the articles of the Green Claims Directive, which governs the truthfulness and substantiation of environmental claims.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n A credible sustainability label is committed to continuous improvement. It must regularly review its objectives, strategies, tool performance, and overall system effectiveness; assess the impact and outcomes of its activities; and apply lessons learned to enhance its performance. It must also respond to new data, stakeholder feedback, and external changes to remain fit for purpose. <\/span><\/p>\n Continuous improvement is a core principle within the LONGTIME\u00ae team. We carry out rigorous, ongoing regulatory monitoring to ensure we consistently go beyond legal requirements and, at the very least, remain aligned with evolving regulations. To update the label\u2019s criteria, LONGTIME\u00ae is currently (as of October 2023) undertaking a comprehensive consultation process to gather feedback on the new criteria from a broad range of stakeholders, including experts, manufacturers, and repair professionals. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d text_font=\u201d|700|||||||\u201d text_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#FFFFFF\u201d background_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d0px||-2px||false|false\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|41px|0px|41px|true|true\u201d locked=\u201doff\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n <\/strong><\/p>\n ISEAL defines the 10 essential criteria that define the robustness ofa sustainability label. These 10 robustness criteria provide an essential framework for assessing the credibility and effectiveness of sustainability labels. Labels that meet these criteria have the potential to play a significant role in promoting responsible and sustainable practices. <\/span><\/p>\n These labels must have a significant impact on sustainable development by generating positive outcomes across social, environmental and economic dimensions, while minimising negative impacts. Collaboration with other stakeholders\u2014including governments and businesses\u2014is essential to maximise their effectiveness. <\/span><\/p>\n In addition, these labels must create value in a fair and equitable way, recognising users\u2019 efforts and minimising access costs. They should also strive to measure and demonstrate progress towards their sustainability objectives using relevant data. <\/span><\/p>\n Stakeholder engagement is another crucial pillar, with a strong focus on inclusiveness and participation in decision-making. Transparency, impartiality, reliability, and truthfulness are key principles for building the credibility of such labels, by providing accessible information and avoiding conflicts of interest. <\/span><\/p>\n Finally, continuous improvement is essential, with the constant reassessment of objectives, strategies, and performance to adapt to evolving circumstances and changing needs. Sustainability labels that meet these 10 criteria\u2014such as the LONGTIME\u00ae label\u2014have the potential to drive responsible and sustainable practices on a broad scale. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n\n\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Sustainability labels play a crucial role in meeting today’s environmental and social challenges. They help consumers to make informed choices and encourage companies and their brands to develop products with a lower life-cycle impact, in particular by adopting more responsible practices that help to reduce premature waste. On this subject, the Green Claims Directive is […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":22646,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[448],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-31443","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
1. Impact on sustainable development<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/ul>\n
\n\u201d title_text=\u201dLONGTIME\u00ae Label compliance\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding=\u201d30px|||||\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d2px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\nLONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2. Collaboration<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
3. Valuecreation<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
4. Measurableprogress<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
5. Stakeholder engagement<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n\u201d title_text=\u201dLONGTIME\u00ae approved partners\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d custom_padding=\u201d31px|||||\u201d][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\u201d1_2\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.22.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.4\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d5px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\nLONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/strong><\/h3>\n
6. Transparency<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
7. Impartiality<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
8. Reliability<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
9. Veracity<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
10. Continuous improvement<\/strong><\/h2>\n
LONGTIME\u00aecompliance<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/h2>\n
Things to <\/strong><\/span>remember about the 10 robustness criteria for a sustainability label<\/strong><\/h2>\n