EPEAT adopts the Ecologic solution in its attribution criteria
Ecologic, the French government-approved eco-organization for recycling of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE or D3E), has been recognized as complying with the admission criteria for the EPEAT eco-label. For manufacturers, who rely on the eco-organization to take care of their end-of-life equipment, this is an undeniable advantage in obtaining this certification.
What is the EPEAT ecolabel?
The EPEAT label measures the environmental performance of electronic products according to a series of mandatory or optional criteria, based on the IEEE 1680 standard.
Depending on the results obtained, the product acquires a “bronze” classification (all mandatory criteria required), a “silver” classification (all mandatory criteria plus 50% of optional criteria required) or a “gold” classification (mandatory and optional criteria required). Since February 2013, EPEAT has extended the scope of its label to printing equipment (copiers, printers, scanners...).
EPEAT criteria reflect several categories of attributes, inherent to the complete life cycle of electrical and electronic equipment:
- Reduction/elimination of harmful substances
- Choice of materials
- Eco-design
- Lifespan
- Energy saving
- End-of-life management (category considered by Ecologic)
- CSR
- Packaging
Ultimately, this label enables consumers to assess the environmental impact of the products they buy.
EPEAT is recognized worldwide and has become a standard for IT equipment manufacturers wishing to highlight their efforts in terms of sustainable development.
This label takes into account Ecologic's end-of-life criteria.
Ecologic certified compliant with EPEAT criteria, specializing in end-of-life management
In concrete terms, what does Ecologic's recognition by EPEAT mean for the producers members of the eco-organization ?
First of all, EPEAT is becoming increasingly widespread and recognized in the IT sector. Producers are aware of this and are making real efforts to comply with the criteria.
Also, regulations obliging producers to finance the end-of-life management of their products enables eco-organizations to take charge of EPR. Producers can rely on the Ecologic solution - approved by the French government - to meet their regulatory obligations and, at the same time, use its services to comply with EPEAT criteria.