Introduction

The need to communicate the environmental impact of products in a credible way from a life cycle perspective is increasing. Part of the European Commission’s initiative ”Single Market for Green Products” aims to facilitate better information on the environmental performance of products and organisations. Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) and Organisation Environmental Footprint (OEF) are two methods that were developed in 2013 and have since been tested, evaluated, and developed. These methods are still being developed, and policies and legislative proposals are emerging based on PEF.

The Environmental Footprint methods measure and communicate the environmental performance of products (both goods and services) and organisations across their whole life cycle, from raw material extraction or growing to the end-of-life management, via production, distribution and use.

Overview of the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) method – What is PEF? (March 30, 2021)

Aim of project

Business, authorities and the public sector in Sweden become aware of product-related policy development based on Environmental Footprint at the EU level. Furthermore, to make visible and clarify the consequences of proposed methodology choices in Environmental Footprint to better understand what effects an implementation can have in the industry. This contributes to the further development of Environmental Footprint and its implementation and strengthens the Swedish competitiveness.

Activities

• Case studies and test parts of the Environmental Footprint methodologies (effects in industry)
• Coordination between Life cycle professionals & Swedish representation in TAB
• Communication activities
• Collaboration with Government agencies in Sweden

Expected outcomes

• Increased knowledge about Environmental Footprint and its effects during implementation
• Capacity to manage future regulations based on Environmental Footprint
• Contribution to improved Environmental Footprint methodologies
• Increased network, collaboration and knowledge exchange between actors to manage Environmental footprints