Voluntary labelling systems

In addition to REACH, a wide range of voluntary labelling systems exist as well as different tools, standards, private labels based on best practice and improvement, as opposed to law. A straightforward evaluation of the role of labels in product differentiation is not possible with the plethora of certification schemes, which is often daunting to companies wishing to address sustainability issues and frequently causes confusion and frustration in the market. 

AUergen Bureau VITAL (2007). Voluntary incidental trace allergen labelling system, http // www.aUergenbureau.net/aUergen-guide/vital/ (accessed May 3, 2008). 

Two directives related to medical devices are the Medical Devices Directive (MDD), enacted in 1993 (mandatory as of June 15,1998), and the Active Implanted Medical Devices Directive (AlMDD), effective since 1995. Safety is the primary concern of this system, and as in the United States, there are three classes of risk. These risks are based on what and for how long the device touches, and its effects. Safety issues include electrical, mechanical, thermal, radiation, and labeling. Voluntary standards that address these issues are formulated by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC). 

ISO 14000 is a development of ISO 9000. It also consists of a set of voluntary standards— with a focus on environmental systems and management. Ultimately, ISO 14000 will incorporate 20 separate standards covering a wide range of topics, including environmental auditing, labeling, and product life cycles. 

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