Website of the UK government

Labelling schemes

Each of the labels shown here has an environmental or sustainability focus. This could be protection of natural resources or habitats, or minimisation of energy consumption in manufacture or use. Some labels here focus mainly on agricultural or ethical aspects.  There are many schemes, and not all are covered here, but on the pages in this section you will find examples of the main types of schemes.

• Food labels
• Organic labels
• Timber product labels
• Wider world labels
• Ecolabels
• Energy labels
• Vehicle labels
• Product-specific labels
• Recycling and packaging labels

Green claims

Apart from organised labelling schemes, manufacturers and retailers can make their own green claims. Some of these give useful information on how the product is made, or the best way to use or dispose of it.

But sometimes claims are vague or don’t give a proper explanation. For example, phrases like “environmentally friendly” and “kind to nature” are meaningless. Symbols of globes, trees and flowers also mean nothing unless they come with a clear explanation of what is being done to help the environment.

The government has published a Green Claims Code and other guidance to help businesses improve the standard of environmental claims. 

• Access the government's Green Claims Code Opens new window

Shopper’s guide to green labels

The information found on these pages can be downloaded in a pdf format.

• Download the Shopper’s Guide to Green Labels (PDF document, 393K) Opens new window
• Help with PDF files

Or you can get a pocket-sized printed version from this address (you need to quote PB11502):

Defra publications, Admail 6000, London SW1A 2XX
Telephone: 08459 556000
Email: defra@cambertown.com

More useful links

• More on green claims and labelling Opens new window