| New criteria for EU eco-label |
| 27 March 2009 |
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The EU eco-label criteria for seven product groups have been revised. The revised criteria for textiles and bed mattresses will prohibit additive flame retardants, such as deca-BDE, but permit reactive flame retardants such as Tetrabromo Bisphenol-A (TBBPA), the regulatory committee of member state representatives decided in the last meeting 20 March. The committee also decided textiles containing biocides that could potentially be carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic (CMRs) or bioaccumulative and persistent should not be awarded the label. But such substances could be allowed in mattresses if approved for that specific use. Regarding footwear, the ban on PVC that is part of today?s criteria will be removed. But the revised criteria will put a stop to the phthalates restricted under the new Toy Safety Directive ? DEHP, DBP and BBP ? These three phthalates are listed on the EU Candidate list and have also been prioritized by ECHA for authorisation. The adjusted eco-label criteria will also ban three other phthalates ? DNOP, DINP and DIDP also restricted under the toys directive. The new rules will take effect in 2010. |