Eco-friendly products and services are gaining increasing attention every day, not only for the myriad benefits they bring to the ecological environment but also for consumer health. Along with this, we are witnessing a strong increase in demand for eco-friendly products and the importance of ecolabels, also known as green labels. Among these, the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS) stands out.
What is the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS)?
The Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS), falls under Type I ecolabel category, meaning it is an ecolabel with high environmental standards and requires a rigorous third-party certification process. It is among the most transparent and reputable green labels. Currently, this green label is featured on the packaging of over 4,300 products in 50 countries, including Japan and the United States, and has received significant recognition from governments worldwide.
The standards set by SGLS for products are extremely stringent. The Singapore Green Labelling Scheme assessment process spans the entire product lifecycle, from raw materials to end-of-life, ensuring that certified products fully meet the strict environmental criteria of ISO 14024. This not only helps prevent environmental harm but also safeguards consumer health.
History of SGLS
In 1992, when environmental issues began to emerge, the Singapore Environment Council (SEC) initiated the Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (SGLS) certification program to help identify eco-friendly products, laying the groundwork for promoting sustainable consumption and reducing waste and toxic chemicals.
With its transparency and strict standards, SGLS quickly gained significant attention and favor among consumers, as well as businesses and government organizations worldwide. These factors contributed to the green label’s successful entry into the Global Ecolabelling Network(GEN) in 1994. To date, SGLS has become one of the most influential green labels in the Asia-Pacific region.
Benefits of SGLS
SGLS is not just an ordinary green label; it also offers numerous benefits for businesses, such as:
Product credibility
Not only does SGLS have a rigorous verification process in accordance with the strict ISO 14024 environmental standard, but it is also a member of GEN. This helps SGLS affirm its transparency and bring credibility to products that carry this certification.
Competitiveness
Possessing SGLS means that the product has undergone a verification process and fully meets specific strict criteria applied worldwide. Therefore, SGLS products will easily gain consumer trust and be more competitive than other non-certified conventional products.
Market expansion
Because it is widely recognized everywhere, this organization opens up a new market for green businesses – the international market. A product that has achieved Singapore Green Labelling Scheme certification can be distributed even in the most demanding countries such as Japan or the United States and even supports businesses in becoming partners not only with large businesses but also with government organizations.
Environmental Protection & Cost Savings
Compliance with SGLS regulations also helps businesses significantly reduce costs by conserving resources, minimizing energy consumption during production, and switching to green, readily available materials (sugarcane bagasse, bamboo, etc.). Additionally, these regulations help businesses ensure product safety, reduce ecological impacts, and most importantly, protect consumer health.
Conclusion
The Singapore Green Labelling SGLS is one of the most prominent green certifications in the world and has a strong influence in the Asian region to date. Therefore, if you want to start your eco-friendly journey and pursue a sustainable lifestyle, don’t overlook Singapore Green Labelling Scheme products.