What does Ethical Certification and Labelling (ECL) mean?
Ethical Certification and Labeling is defined as a broad category of
voluntary standardization, certification and labelling programs
which provide assurance that certified organizations display "ethical"
behaviour; ethical in the sense that they support social, environmental
and/or economic equity and participate to sustainable development.
Who are the stakeholders in ECL?
ECL stakeholders include: Certification systems/conformity assessment
systems, NGOs (development, environment, consumers, social/human
rights), business (large, SME engaged and not engaged, retailers,
producers, service sector), government (national and local), standards
institutions, intergovernmental organizations, investment/insurance
sector, trade unions, academic sector, indigenous people, media, donors
institutions, ECL schemes, youth organizations and associations of
standard-setting and certification.
What is the ECL Space?
The ECL Space is a neutral ground where stakeholders can openly discuss
and find solutions to ECL issues that constrain its wide acceptability.
Its main components are ECLAP, the ECL WebMachine and the ECL
Gazette.
What is the origin of the ECL Space concept?
The concept of an ECL Space - a unique global multi-stakeholder forum
in which global governance of certification and labelling for
sustainable development can proceed - was born out of a meeting
bringing together several stakeholders in Geneva in June 2003.
Who manages the ECL Space?
The establishment and maintenance of the ECL Space is overseen by
ECLAP, which is itself governed by a geographically and thematically
diverse Steering Group . Day-to-day duties are carried on by the
secretariat.
How is the ECL Space funded?
The funding is based on donor's support and from the use of the
WebMachine's unique consultation and decision-making features in
projects. Click here for a list of current projects underway. Click
here for the list of current supporting organizations.
What is the difference between the public and the member sections of the WebMachine?
The difference is that in addition to ECL WebMachine public pages,
(Description, Who we are, Contacts, Why become a member, How to become a
member, Frequently asked questions and Links) the member section allow
users to have access to the full functionality of the WebMachine.
Members will have access to the full version of the newsletter, the ECL
Gazette; access to outstanding and relevant information; access to the
guidelines development process, enabling members to participate in the
discussions and elaboration of guidelines.
What are the functionalities of the ECL WebMachine?
The ECL WebMachine is a central instrument for the ECL Space. Provides
reliable information to interested parties, Creates a centralized,
focused and easily accessible tool for enabling global,
multi-stakeholder consultations cost-efficiently and facilitate
decision-making on best practices surrounding complex issues.
How can I have access to all parts of the ECL WebMachine?
You need to register as a member, thus agreeing to abide by the Code of
Use and participate actively in relevant processes, and provide 2
supporting
individuals/organizations for your application.
To what do I commit to by becoming a ECL Space member?
By becoming a member of the ECL Space, you are endorsing the ECL Space
vision, mission and values and stating your support for authentic ECL as a
positive tool to bring about sustainable development on the ground.
Will membership always be free?
For the moment it is. It is possible that in the future, a membership
fee will be levied. In any case, fees shall not be a deterrent for
becoming a member.
Is it necessary to register as economic, environmental or social?
Absolutely. It is important to state whether you represent economic,
environmental or social interests as together with the developed or
developing country categories, this information is vital for balancing
decision-making powers.
What happens once I've indicated the 2 supporters to my registration?
You will receive an e-mail confirming your membership on a provisory
basis. Your 2 referrals will also be sent an email asking them to
confirm their support. You will have access to all
features of the member section of the ECL WebMachine with the exception
of its decision-making mechanism, and access to this once their support is given.
What happens with the information that I provide in the registration?
All personal information is kept confidential, in accordance with the
Swiss Federal Law on Data Protection (19 June 1992). Except as set
forth in the Conditions for Membership, we do not disclose or sell any
personal information to third parties, other than by explicit
permission.
