FAQ's
01. What is Spreewald Ecolabel?
Spreewald Ecolabel is a regional certification that meets high standards in sustainability, fair working conditions, corporate ethics, and transparency. It helps consumers and partners identify businesses committed to responsible practices.
02. Who can apply for the eco-label?
Any company operating in spreewald, regardless of size or sector. Small businesses may have some conditional questions but can still earn points through voluntary ethical and sustainable practices.
03. What criteria are evaluated?
The eco-label evaluates companies across six sections:
i. Product Identification
ii. Sustainable Resources Utilization
iii. German Food Safety & Hygiene
iv. Fair Working Conditions and Corporate Ethics
v. Contribution to Community
vi. Verification and Transparency
04. How is the questionnaire scored?
- The questionnaire uses a point-based system:
- a) Some questions are mandatory for compliance. Others are optional and give bonus points.
- b) Final points determine the certification level.
05. How long is the certification valid?
Certification is valid for 1 year, after which companies must submit updated evidence or undergo re-evaluation.
06. How long does the application process take?
Typically completed within a few minutes.
07. Is the eco-label legally binding or mandatory?
No, the label is voluntary. However, companies must comply with German and EU laws, including labour, safety, environmental, and consumer protection regulations, to qualify.
08. How is the eco-label verified?
Verification may include Review of submitted documents. Random or scheduled audits. Third-party verification may be used for additional credibility.
09. What happens if a company fails to meet some criteria?
Partial points may be awarded if some sections are compliant. Companies may be asked to implement corrective actions. Certification is only granted after minimum thresholds are met.
10. Does the eco-label guarantee full sustainability or ethical compliance?
No. The label indicates compliance with the criteria measured in the questionnaire. It complements, but does not replace, legal obligations under German or EU law.
11. What is expected regarding suppliers and supply chains?
Suppliers should meet minimum social and labor standards. Companies should assess or audit suppliers regularly. If LkSG (Supply Chain Due Diligence Act) is not applicable, companies can voluntarily apply equivalent ethical practices.
12. What is expected for marketing and claims?
Companies must avoid misleading sustainability claims or greenwashing. Marketing practices should comply with UWG (Gesetz gegen den unlauteren Wettbewerb).
13. Who can I contact for questions or support?
For questions about the eco-label, application process, or scoring, contact:
Email: support@spreewald.ecolabel.com
Phone: +49 XXX XXX XXXX
14. What counts as compliance with German labor law?
a) Arbeitszeitgesetz (Working Hours Act) – limits daily/weekly working hours and mandates rest periods.
b) Mindestlohngesetz (Minimum Wage Act) ensures all employees, including part-time and mini jobbers, receive the legal minimum wage.
c) Arbeitsschutzgesetz (Occupational Safety Act) – ensures health and safety measures, risk assessments, and protective equipment.
d) EU labor directives, such as the Working Time Directive, regulate hours and rest periods.
15. What should a Code of Conduct cover?
Integrity, compliance with law, respect for workers, anti-corruption, and responsible behavior. Should be publicly accessible or internally communicated.
Reference: OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises https://www.oecd.org/en/topics/policy-issues/responsible-business-conduct.html
16. What if the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) is not applicable?
Companies not meeting the size threshold can answer “Not applicable”. They should complete the conditional follow-up on voluntary ethical supply chain practices to earn points.
17. How should suppliers meet ethical standards?
Suppliers should follow minimum social and labor standards: fair wages, safe working conditions, no forced labor. Companies should assess or audit suppliers regularly, either internally or via third parties.
18. What is considered fair marketing and anti-greenwashing?
Avoid misleading claims about sustainability or eco-friendliness. Follow UWG (Gesetz gegen den unlauteren Wettbewerb) for consumer protection.
19. How does the eco label help preserve Spreewald’s cultural landscape?
Sustainable farming practices that eco labels promote help maintain traditional land use patterns and protect the unique Spreewald environment. Supporting these practices keeps cultural landscapes alive and preserves the region’s natural heritage for future generations.
20. Is the eco label connected to official standards?
Yes. Eco labels typically build on established agricultural standards and inspections that ensure food is produced with ecological practices, such as those defined under EU organic regulations. This gives consumers confidence that labeled products meet strict environmental and social criteria.
21. How does this eco label differ from other sustainability initiatives?
This eco label is tailored to highlight and uplift the specific agricultural strengths and heritage of the Spreewald region. It goes beyond generic sustainability messaging by being rooted in local community development and regional ecological stewardship.
