Sustainability has become a strategic priority for the textile industry. Companies are increasingly required to demonstrate transparency, reduce environmental impact and meet ambitious ESG objectives.

As a result, certifications are playing an increasingly important role in purchasing decisions, public procurement and supplier selection.

Among them, the EU Ecolabel Certification set the EU standard, helping companies identify products with low environmental impact.

But what exactly does the certification mean, and why is it becoming increasingly important in the workwear industry?

What Is EU Ecolabel Certification?

The EU Ecolabel Certification is the official environmental label of the European Union.

It identifies products and services with a reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle—from raw material sourcing and production to use and disposal.

Unlike generic environmental claims, the EU Ecolabel is:

• voluntary but highly selective;
• based on the ISO 14024 Type I standard;
• verified by independent third-party bodies;
• built on rigorous, science-based criteria.

For businesses and end users, it provides confidence that a product has been independently assessed and meets strict environmental requirements.

What Does the EU Ecolabel Evaluate?

The certification follows a multi-criteria approach and evaluates several aspects of a product’s environmental performance, including:

• traceability of raw materials;
• restrictions on hazardous substances and REACH compliance;
• energy and water consumption;
• waste and emissions management;
• product durability and performance.

This holistic approach makes the EU Ecolabel one of the most comprehensive sustainability certifications available for textiles.

Why Is EU Ecolabel Certification Important for Workwear?

The EU Ecolabel Certification helps companies to promote environmental responsible products .

This is particularly relevant in sectors such as:

• healthcare;
• public services;
• transport;
• facility management;
• industrial services;
• hospitality;
• corporate uniforms.

Benefits of EU Ecolabel Certification for Businesses

For brands and procurement managers, the certification offers significant strategic advantages.

Supports ESG Objectives

Certified products contribute to environmental and sustainability strategies.

Improves Compliance Risks

Strict criteria on chemicals and production processes.

Provides Credibility

Third-party verification offers transparency and helps avoid greenwashing concerns.

Meets Market Demand

Customers increasingly expect certified sustainable solutions.

Improves Product Value

Durable products with verified environmental credentials contribute to longer life cycles and better overall performance.

EU Ecolabel Certification and Public Procurement

Public procurement is one of the main drivers behind the growing importance of the EU Ecolabel.

Across Europe, public authorities increasingly integrate environmental criteria into tenders.

In Italy, for example, Criteri Ambientali Minimi (CAM) are mandatory in public procurement.

The EU Ecolabel can:

• be directly required in tenders;
• serve as proof of environmental compliance.

Considering that public procurement accounts for around 14% of the EU’s GDP, the strategic value of this certification continues to grow.

How to Achieve EU Ecolabel Certification

Companies looking to develop certified garments can follow a simple process:

1. Select Ecolabel-compliant fabrics.
2. Eventually design garments according to certification requirements.
3. Ensure accessories and chemicals comply with the criteria.
4. Apply through the competent certification body.
5. Complete the verification and auditing process.

Because the certification applies to the entire supply chain, choosing the right textile partner is essential.

Klopman Expands Its EU Ecolabel Certified Fabric Portfolio

At Klopman, sustainability is embedded in innovation.

The company already holds the EU Ecolabel Certification and has recently expanded its portfolio of certified fabrics, increasing the number of sustainable solutions available to customers.

The portfolio includes fabrics developed with:

• recycled polyester;
• organic cotton;
• Better Cotton;
• TENCEL™ fibres.

These solutions support:

• ESG objectives;
• sustainable procurement strategies;
• public tender requirements;
• responsible textile sourcing.

As one of the few companies in the professional textile market with an extensive range of EU Ecolabel-certified solutions, Klopman continues to help customers combine sustainability, durability and performance.