The EU Ecolabel was established on 23 March 1992 and is recognised throughout Europe and the world. It is a mark of environmental excellence awarded to products and services that meet high environmental standards throughout their entire life cycle: from raw material extraction to production, distribution and disposal. The EU Ecolabel promotes a circular economy by encouraging manufacturers to create less waste and CO2 during the production process. The EU Ecolabel criteria also encourage companies to develop products that are durable, easy to repair and recyclable.

The EU Ecolabel criteria provide essential guidance for companies wishing to reduce their environmental impact and ensure the effectiveness of their environmental measures through third-party verification. In addition, many companies are turning to the

The EU Ecolabel is intended for all types of accommodation providers. It is awarded to operators who meet the European Commission’s criteria and operate in a sustainable manner. The environmental friendliness is verified by checking the criteria published by the European Commission in the Official Journal of the EU in February 2017.

There are 22 mandatory criteria, followed by 45 optional criteria. Both mandatory and optional criteria are divided into five groups:

1. General management

• Maintenance of equipment
• Monitoring of raw material and energy consumption

2. Energy

• Use of renewable sources
• Efficiency of heating and cooling
• Efficiency of lighting and appliances

3. Water

• Limiting water consumption in bathrooms
• Water consumption of dishwashers and washing machines
• Efficient irrigation of plants
• Use of rainwater

4. Waste and wastewater

• Prevention of cosmetic and food waste
• Waste separation
• Reuse of used textiles and furniture

5. Other

• Inclusion of the local environment in the operation of the accommodation
• Promotion of environmentally friendly practices and means of transport