Eco‐labels: a sustainability performance in benchmarking?

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to map and analyse the state of the art of eco‐energy labelling and its potential as a fundamental component in the transition process towards eco‐sustainability.Design/methodology/approachA detailed scenario of trends in eco‐energy labelling systems, both on an international and European Union scale are outlined, followed by identification and analysis of the key representative experiences. Subsequently, the main constraints that limit their full potential as a benchmark and tool of improved customer communication for environmental sustainability have been highlighted and critically analysed.FindingsThe full implementation of eco‐energy labelling, as a authentic driving force in sustainability building processes, requires the elimination of the critical factors identified. Therefore, standardisation of benchmarking methodologies, based on improved customer information mechanisms regarding qualitative and quantitative indicators, need to implemented. A strong commitment on the part of all participants involved, to define a multi‐level framework, capable of promoting a recognised international rating scheme in needed.Practical implicationsThe most significant implications regard the attempt to classify and coordinate all the information concerning instruments, initiatives, policies and strategies related to eco‐sustainability.Originality/valueThe paper is a contribution towards pinpointing the current fragmented scenario of eco‐energy labelling tools with the aim of re‐conducting them into a coherent and more functional whole.

The Benefits and Challenges of Sustainable Tourism Certification: A Case Study of the Green Tourism Business Scheme in the West of England

“…Indirect barriers, deemed outside of the immediate control of the businesses, included a lack of supportive funding, poor consumer knowledge, poor marketing support, the effects of the recession, and inflexibility of the scheme, all of which correlate to previous studies (Carlsen et al, 2001;Font, 2002;Font & Buckley, 2001;Proto et al, 2007;Swarbrooke, 1999). The lack of funding relates to the availability of grants or subsidised rates for implementing sustainability into a business, including financial assistance for joining GTBS.…”

“…For example, barriers to consumer demand have been attributed to the vast number of schemes available, the complexity or lack of information offered about the scheme, lack of consumer awareness, and the price of the product -which is often perceived as higher than other non-certified services (Carlsen et al, 2001;Medina, 2005;Proto et al, 2007;Reiser & Simmons, 2005).…”

The Impact of Personal and Cultural Factors on Green Buying Intentions with Mediating Roles of Environmental Attitude and Eco-Labels as Well as Gender as a Moderator

“…Giridhar (1998) stated that eco-labels are the collective environmental performance of any product. Eco-labels thus act as an influencing factor for choosing the products (Proto, Malandrino, & Supino, 2007). In order to deliver credibility and reliability eco-labels play a vital role in shaping the consumer's intentions to purchase green products.…”

The environmental creditworthiness assessment methodology

“…According to Proto et al (2007), eco labeling has become a fundamental benchmarking system for enterprise sustainability performance and guidance in consumer choice. The improvement of organizational, environmental, social, and ethical performance contributes to various actions toward sustainability via three dimensions: economic, environmental, and social (i.e., the "triple-bottom-line" approach).…”