PEFC
This label is an initiative of 1999 forest owners from six European countries. In cooperation with the paper industry, wildlife associations, scientists, consumers and public forest owners agreed to have a system for certification under the flag of the PEFC Council.
The PEFC Council also want to manage forests sustainably. The PEFC-label ensures that the wood used comes from forests that are managed in an environmentally friendly and socially responsible way. Website
FSC
This label indicates that the paper is made from wood of a responsibly managed forest. FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council, an international non-profit organisation that wants to encourage and improve responsible forest management worldwide.
Only when both forest management and supply chain meet the FSC requirements, wood producers and paper suppliers may use the FSC logo. FSC checks this with help of independent certification organisations. Océ is FSC certified since May 2006. Website
EMAS
The European EMAS logo represents companies that continuously improve their environmental performance. They work with an environmental management system and report about their environmental performance.
In a verified statement, they compare their achieved results with their environmental goals and communicate what steps they take to further improve the performance. Website
Ecolabel
The European Ecolabel or the Flower, indicates that a product, in this case paper, is produced in an environmentally friendly way. A company must meet strict criteria as for emission to water and air and energy use. Chlorine bleach should not be used.
An independent party checks this way of working. Website
Nordic Swan
The Nordic Ecolabel, known as "Nordic Swan" is the official Scandinavian ecolabel, introduced in 1989 by the Nordic Council of Ministers. The symbol is mainly used in Scandinavian countries for about 60 product groups including copying and printing paper.
Nordic Swan sets extensive criteria for raw materials, energy, water consumption, emissions, waste management, share of certified fibres, using chemicals and the ability to recycle products. Website
The Blaue Engel (Blue Angel)
This environmental certificate is the oldest in the world and an initiative of the German government in 1977. It allows companies to distinguish themselves in the market by the use of environmentally friendly products and helps consumers to choose products based on their care for the environment. An independent jury sets the criteria.
Around 3700 products and services are now carrying the Blue Angel logo. Paper with the Blue Angel, is at least 95% recycled paper, or recycled paper from households. Website