The criteria are based on the cradle-to-grave approach, i.e. from raw material extraction to manufacturing and to disposal. The basic criteria cover broad environmental levels and aspects, but are specific at the product level. A product is examined in terms of the following main environmental impacts :

• that they have substantially less potential for pollution than other comparable products in production, usage and disposal.
• that they are recycled, recyclable, made from recycled products or bio- degradable, where comparable products are not;
• that they make significant contribution to saving non-renewable resources including non-renewable energy sources and natural resources compared with comparable products;
• that the product must contribute to a reduction of the adverse primary criteria which has the highest environmental impact associated with the use of the product, and which will be specifically set for each of the product categories.

Product General Requirements :

The product general requirements deal with the issues of compliance of the pollution control acts; raising environmental awareness among consumers etc., in addition to safety, quality and performance of the products.

Product Specific Requirements :

While determining the product specific requirements, the following issues have been taken into account :

Ecomark Criteria of the Product Categories covered under the scheme.

The Government of India has notified the final criteria for the following 16 product categories :