ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the recommendations that are addressed specifically to environmental product information schemes (EPIS) decision-makers both at the national and, particularly, at the European Union level. It deals with crucial elements in the establishment of EPIS. The recommendations are relevant both for mandatory labels and for voluntary labels. The chapter highlights that if the schemes are to be as effective and efficient as possible then there is a need to follow different strategies for the different product categories in order to select the most appropriate EPIS. It describes the need for marketing efforts to raise consumer and business awareness of EPIS. The chapter looks at the EPIS within the context of emerging social aspects and considers the potential evolution of EPIS from eco-labels to sustainability labels, including social, environmental and economic aspects. It discusses the following questions: the institutionalisation of labelling schemes, the selection of products, the development of criteria, and the format, design and administration of the label.
