Malta among lowest in EU Ecolabel product adoption

Despite a growing trend across Europe in eco-friendly product certification, Malta is lagging behind in adopting EU Ecolabel products. As of September 2024, Malta ranked the third lowest in the EU, alongside Slovakia and Luxembourg, in terms of awarded licences and certified products under the EU Ecolabel scheme.

The EU Ecolabel, a mark of environmental excellence, has seen significant growth in recent months. Since March 2024, both licences and certified products have increased steadily, reflecting rising demand for sustainable goods and services.

The total number of EU Ecolabel products reached an all-time high of 98,977 in September 2024, supported by 2,983 awarded licences. This marks a three per cent increase in products and a 9 per cent rise in licences compared to March 2024 figures.

Leading the push for sustainable production are countries like Italy, France, Germany, and Spain, which remain at the top in both the number of licences and certified products. In contrast, Malta, with its minimal representation, stands out as one of the EU’s least engaged countries in this area.

This disparity is concerning given the EU’s ongoing commitment to the Green Deal and the growing consumer interest in sustainable choices. Popular product groups include paints and varnishes, tissue products, textiles, and cleaning products; all of which are widely used across EU member states, presenting an opportunity for growth in Malta.

Malta’s low engagement with the EU Ecolabel scheme highlights the need for increased awareness, stronger policy incentives, and greater support for businesses to embrace sustainable practices. As the EU continues to elevate its environmental standards, bridging the gap between leading and lagging nations will be crucial in achieving a greener future for all.