RP launches green labelling program

The Philippines is finally catching up with at least one global trend: eco-labeling.

Pioneered in Europe as "green labeling," the use by industries of environmentally friendly production processes, packaging materials, health and safety practices – has been recognized by governments with green labels.

The green labels gave products premium customer choice that commanded better prices.

Until last year, green labeling was unheard of in the Philippines.

A breakthrough in promoting environment-friendly firms took off on March 10, when Green Choice Philippines was launched in a hotel in Makati City by the Clean and Green Foundation.

Initiated by the Clean and Green Foundation Inc., a national eco-labeling program has been launched with the participation of government, business associations, non-government organizations, consumer groups, environmental organizations and the academe, announced Imelda Sarmiento, Clean and Green executive director.

She said that the eco-labeling program’s board and a working secretariat have been formed and will be ready to start processing the labeling application of companies that feel they can cash in on the best practices in complying with global standards on environment compliance especially in the export markets. – Abe Belena, Philexport News and Features