EU Ecolabel breaks record: setting the gold standard with more than 100.000 certifications

The EU Ecolabel has reached a major milestone, with more than 102,000 goods and services now available in Europe— a 3% increase over the past year. The number of awarded licenses has grown to 3,248, up by 5% since September 2024. This growth highlights how the label continues to help businesses boost their environmental performance, drive innovation and stay competitive.  

Now in its 33^rd year, the EU Ecolabel has become a worldwide reference for green goods and services.  It is a trusted voluntary certification embraced across industries, and supported by the EU Member States, NGOs such as EEB and BEUC, and big market players such as Amazon and Booking.com. 

And it’s not just for big companies! With around 57% of EU Ecolabel license holders being SMEs, it is clear the label helps businesses of all sizes stand out in a market where a growing number of consumers - but also private and public buyers - are looking for sustainable options.  

Certification champions

The EU Ecolabel continues to grow steadily across Europe, with Italy (16%), Spain (15%), France (13%) and Germany (10%) leading the way in terms of product certifications. These countries benefit from strong national support systems, proactive Competent Bodies and a business environment that supports eco-certification. 

Leading the pack: the EU Ecolabel’s most awarded product groups 

Tourist accommodation services remain a standout product group, accounting for 25% of all licenses, with 837 certified establishments – a clear sign of the hospitality sector’s commitment to sustainable tourism. 

Paints and varnishes continue to dominate as the leading product category, far outpacing others, with 36,960 certified products – making up over a third of all EU Ecolabel products. Tissue paper and tissue products come in second place, with 18,958 certified items. 

Textiles follow with 11,023 awarded products, while Hard surface cleaning products keep performing strongly, totaling 8,129 certified products. 

New frontier  

The EU Ecolabel is expanding into new areas. For instance, a pet care shampoo from Catalonia, Spain, has received the first product certification under the Animal care products category. 
Meanwhile, updated with new criteria in September 2023, Absorbent Hygiene Products have gained 5 new licenses and 208 certified products since September 2024, showing that many former license holders are reapplying under the revised criteria. A strong rebound is expected, potentially surpassing previous totals. 

More than just a label — a catalyst for business innovation  

As the numbers show, the EU Ecolabel is more than just a certification scheme: it is a strategic tool for businesses aiming to stand out in the green economy.  

The label offers businesses a clear and verifiable way to meet growing consumer expectations and to comply with regulatory requirements, such as the ones stemming from the Directive on Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition.  

With most product categories experiencing sustained growth, the EU Ecolabel offers a clear path for companies to innovate, differentiate from competitors and lead the way in the green transition.   

Ready to get certified? Reach out to your national Competent Body or explore the product groups and criteria.