Focus on sustainability and eco-labelling: use the PFI's advice, expertise and testing function!

The flood of environmental and sustainability labels is almost impossible to keep track of. The variety of different seals often leads to confusion among consumers (and companies). Nevertheless, sustainable products are in demand. According to a study by the market research institute TheCosumerView in cooperation with the consulting firm Edelman, two-thirds of consumers prefer sustainable products to those that do not carry a seal or label at all.

 

Experts from politics and business agree that the topic of sustainability will continue to grow in importance. The requirements, especially for companies in the shoe and fashion industry, are immense and many suppliers find it difficult to keep track. As a reliable partner of industry and trade, the PFI competently leads through the jungle of requirements: both in an advisory capacity and in carrying out tests.

"We are observing that more and more companies are using the PFI's expertise in the area of sustainability. And that means industry as well as large trading groups," explains Dr. Ines Anderie, responsible for the area of chemical analytics at the PFI. In addition to carrying out chemical and physical tests, the PFI is actively involved in awarding test marks. As was recently the case with the certification for the award of the "Österreichischen Umweltzeichen" (Austrian Eco-Label) and the "Blauer Engel" (Blue Angel) to the shoe manufacturer Think! The company was the first shoe manufacturer to be awarded the "Austrian Ecolabel". "Blue Angel" and "Austrian Eco-label" are among the strictest sustainability certificates in Europe. In order to meet all criteria, the product is not only tested during final production. The production of the materials used must also be demonstrably environmentally friendly. In addition, the awarded products must meet demanding social criteria.

The PFI's experience and know-how are also in demand for many other eco-labels, such as the "Grüner Knopf" (Green Button), OEKO-TEX and the PFI ECO-Label. Dr. Ines Anderie advises: "Use the expertise of the PFI. A test mark proves that you take your duties as a manufacturer or retailer seriously and that your product meets all safety requirements and quality criteria."

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