Eco-Score: Environmental Impact
Understand this A-E label to make more sustainable food choices.
Eco-Score (A-E) indicates a product's environmental impact. 'A' is low impact, 'E' is high. Find more details on the official Eco-Score website.
How is Eco-Score Calculated?
The Eco-Score is primarily based on the product's Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data from projects like Agribalyse by ADEME (French Environment and Energy Management Agency). Key factors include:
- Carbon Footprint (CO2 emissions): Impact of production, processing, transport.
- Resource Depletion: Use of water, land, and other resources.
- Impact on Biodiversity: Effects on ecosystems and species.
- Packaging: Type of material, recyclability.
- Origin of Ingredients: Local vs. imported, transport impact.
- Farming Practices: Organic, fair trade, certifications that reduce impact.
Bonus points can be awarded for positive aspects like sustainable sourcing, organic certification, or recyclable packaging, while penalties can apply for negative aspects like air freight or deforestation links.
Why is Eco-Score Important?
Food production has a significant impact on the environment. Eco-Score empowers consumers to make choices that align with their environmental values, potentially driving demand for more sustainable products and practices.
The Eco-Score is primarily based on the product's Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data. Bonus points can be awarded for positive aspects like sustainable sourcing or organic certification, while penalties can apply for negative aspects. Like any scoring system, it provides a general indication and is best used for comparing similar types of products.