The nature of eco-label schemes and the reasons for their introduction; the process by which product groups and eco-labelling criteria are defined and the problems these raise in practice - independence, defining product categories, setting criteria, transparency, the multiplicity of programs; history of eco-labelling and an overview of the schemes which have been introduced; an evaluation of their effectiveness in terms of individual consumers and major corporate consumers; the effect of eco-labelling on trade and the debate as to whether or not they constitute barriers to trade; the place of international trade agreements; the current position; conclusion that close study must continue to determine whether eco-labelling schemes will in the long term succeed or fail.
European Energy and Environmental Law Review