EPA Proposes Significant Updates to Federal Purchasing Standards: Ecolabels Take Center Stage

On September 10, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a significant proposed update to its Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing, marking the first comprehensive evaluation in almost a decade. These updates, aimed at helping federal buyers procure more environmentally sustainable products and services, are critical to reducing climate impacts and promoting safer chemical use.

With new additions and removals, the proposal is set to refine the ecolabel landscape for federal procurement, which annually accounts for over $700 billion in spending.

Expanding the Role of Ecolabels in Federal Procurement

Ecolabels are becoming increasingly crucial to help buyers make informed decisions about the environmental impact of products. This update proposes to add 14 new ecolabels across three new product categories: healthcare, laboratories, and clothing and uniforms, while also expanding the food service ware sub-category. These additions are designed to simplify the procurement process for sustainable products, particularly in industries where green certifications are not always clear.

The healthcare category, for instance, will now feature ecolabels that identify sustainable medical supplies and instruments, while laboratories will benefit from ecolabels targeting eco-friendly chemicals and equipment. The clothing and uniforms category reflects a growing interest in sustainable textiles, with certifications expected to cover the entire lifecycle of the product, from production to disposal.

One notable expansion is the food service ware sub-category, where new standards focus on reducing reliance on single-use plastics and products containing PFAS. The updated guidelines would include ecolabels certifying food ware products that are reusable, compostable, and recyclable, offering more eco-friendly alternatives to traditional disposable items.

EPA Tightens Requirements: Ecolabels to be Removed

In addition to these new ecolabels, the EPA also plans to remove seven existing ecolabels that no longer meet the agency's updated criteria or are no longer needed due to changes in regulations. This reflects the agency’s commitment to ensuring that ecolabels used in federal purchasing are credible, up-to-date, and capable of delivering genuine environmental benefits.

The ecolabels proposed for removal include:

1. Sustainable Furnishings Council Exemplary (discontinued in 2021)

2. Ecologo/UL 2771 Standard for Sustainable Paper Products (standard retired in 2023)

3. Eco Choice Aotearoa EC-63-22 Carpets and Rugs

4. Eco Choice Aotearoa EC-07-18 Paints

5. Ecologo/UL 175 Standard for Sustainability for Sanitary Paper Products

6. Ecologo/UL 2792 Standard for Cleaning and Degreasing Compounds

7. Ecologo/UL 2795 Standard for Sustainability for Carpet and Upholstery Care Products

These ecolabels either failed to meet the EPA's enhanced standards for third-party verification and product registries or have become obsolete due to evolving market standards and practices.

A Framework for Sustainability

The proposed updates are grounded in the EPA’s Framework for the Assessment of Environmental Performance Standards and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing. This framework, outlines the criteria for evaluating private sector standards and ecolabels, ensuring that they provide reliable guidance for federal procurement. The framework covers everything from standards development to environmental performance and conformity assessment, ensuring that products meet rigorous environmental and sustainability criteria before being approved for federal purchasing.

The EPA’s Recommendations align with key federal mandates, including Executive Order 14057 on Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability, which directs federal agencies to prioritize the procurement of sustainable products and services. This includes products that meet stringent environmental criteria, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support climate-friendly initiatives. The updated framework not only provides clarity for buyers but also levels the playing field for manufacturers by setting clear expectations for ecolabel qualifications.

Public Input and Next Steps

The EPA is seeking public comments on the proposed updates for 30 days following publication. The agency will use this feedback to shape the final list of ecolabels and standards, ensuring that the recommendations continue to evolve with market and environmental trends.

The Impact of Federal Ecolabels on Sustainability Goals

The EPA’s proposed updates to its Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels for Federal Purchasing represent a significant advancement in promoting sustainability at the federal level. By introducing 14 new ecolabels, expanding categories, and removing outdated or non-compliant ecolabels, the agency is streamlining the procurement process for environmentally preferable products and services. This shift not only benefits the federal government but also sets an example for other organizations seeking to adopt sustainable procurement practices.

As federal agencies continue to leverage their purchasing power to support climate goals, ecolabels will become even more critical in guiding buyers toward safer products for both people and the planet. The EPA’s update ensures that ecolabels remain an effective tool in advancing sustainability across the federal landscape.

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