Panama City, July 24, 2024 – In a groundbreaking move, regulatory bodies from Latin America and the Caribbean have launched the Environmental Alliance of America, a regional eco-labeling program aimed at promoting sustainable trade and informed consumer choices, as per press release issued by UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
The program, supported by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and funded by Germany, will cover over 450 million people in the region and provide a harmonized approach to eco-labeling, facilitating the trade of sustainable products and promoting economic integration.
The initiative follows a 2023 Ministerial Decision from the Forum of Ministers of Environment of Latin America and the Caribbean, underscoring the region’s commitment to eco-labeling.
“This program is crucial for connecting producers and consumers about the environmental impact of products,” said Sheila Aggarwal-Khan, Director of the Industry and Economy Division at UNEP.
Products must meet specific criteria to obtain the eco-label, ensuring consumers receive trustworthy information and can make informed purchasing decisions.
Germany has provided initial funding through the EcoAdvance project, and representatives from Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Colombia emphasized the program’s benefits, including reduced operational costs and business risks for companies, as well as the creation of green jobs.
Juan Bello, UNEP’s Regional Director and Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighted the program’s potential to align actions across borders and promote sustainable development.