Q1

What is Green Mark?

EPA encourages businesses lowers environmental impact when they are manufacturing product and obtaining raw materials by adopting the principle of lower pollution, save the resource, promote waste reduction, reduce toxic substance generation, and recycling. Also, consumer must carefully choose products which are recyclable, with low pollution, and resource saving. Green Mark is the figure of “a green leaf to wrap up a clean and unpolluted earth”. Green Mark means this product has been verified through certain certification to show that this product is qualified of recyclable, low pollution, and resource saving, this certification makes huge contribution to the environmental protection.

Q2

The definition of the Green Mark categorization?

Primary Green Mark Product Certification has been promoted for 7 years. The product category is predefined each year, and EPA invites scholars to make the specification of this kind of product, EPA also makes market survey on these products’ marketability. If manufacturer’s production is in compliance of the specifications, then they can apply for the certification. Because the production specification is made through scrutinized auditing process, and it is very time consuming, therefore, the product choose is usually the product that is related to the daily life necessity, buying in large quantity, or is promptly needed by the consumer.
Because there are too many products in the market eligible yet can not be considered in the primary product category, hence aiming at the environmental products which are not being certified on time, can still participated in the secondary green mark product certification and to enjoy the benefit of regulation of Green Procurement. 

Q3

What's difference with Primary、Secondary and
Third ?

The properties of Primary Green Mark Products are:
1.Predefined product specification
2.Take “life cycle” into account
3.The Green Mark only gives to the best product
Secondary Green Mark is for the manufacturers who use environmental protection as the main theme of the advertisement; they shall follow some certain standards. These standards are recyclable mark, advertisement word, and the testing method and verification standards for 10 other properties like recyclable, utilities saving like
electricity and water usage, can be composted, can be decomposed.The Third Green Mark emphasized on the life cycle appraisal (at least to finish the listed analysis), and described the impact toward the environment detailed. For example, like the energy consumption per unit, water consumption per unit, waste discharge quantity …etc. The consumer can make choice based on these standards.

Q4

Why Green Mark products are
trustworthy?

1. The Green Mark only gives to the product that will give lowest environmental impact in the 20 to 30% of the same categories.
2. Green Mark is given out by the independent third party without interference of the manufacturer or lobbyist.
3.Green Mark set a Benchmark for the same category product.
4. The Green Mark decision policy making process is transparent.
5.The Green Mark is multiple criteria, which makes consumers easy to understand and can choose the best product.
6.It is possible to avoid the overlapping of the mark, like one product has many marks of electricity saving, water usage saving, or recyclable mark. 

Q5

Green consumption?

Green consumption means to adopt simple and plain life living concept, consumers only consume the living necessity. Consumers consider purchasing the product that is having lower impact toward the environment. The range of picking up qualified product or raw material includes the manufacturing process, consuming process,
and waste treatment. Since the consuming behavior is changed, businesses are willing to manufacture the recyclable, low pollution,resource saving product, or green product, and establish selling channel. This will promote resource sustainable use, lower pollution, and environmental protection.

Q6

What is Green product?

Green products mean it is the product that has considered the environmental impact in its life cycle design. Green product design is a relative concept, not absolute, and it will have different evaluation coming out during different time and space. According to ISO 14021, the environmental properties includes the followings:
‧Recycling Rate
‧Reusability / Refillibility
‧Reduce resource use
‧Recyclable
‧Resource Recycling
‧Can be take apart
‧Solid waste quantity reduction
‧can be composted
‧can save the energy
‧can be decomposed
‧water saving
‧prolong the life cycle

Q7

What is the limitation when applying Ecolabel?

Ecolabel certified products only applied to the product items declared by Environmental Protection Administration, Executive Yuan. Applicants shall have commercial or factory registration certificates.

Q8

What are the requirements of Type II Ecolabeled products?

Basically, Type II product application required documents are the same as documents applying Ecolabel. These documents are commercial registration, factory, registration, proof document of nonexistence of significant disposal pollution within the most recent one year, waste disposal planner, waste disposal contract, and other documents concerning product quality and safety. Auditing fee is NT $35,000 dollars per case. Type II product applicants must submit testing proof and testing method of products’ eco-friendliness due to the “claimed eco-friendly characteristic” made by the applicants. Technical auditing team composed of 3 to 5 scholars or specialists. Team members will conduct auditing based on documentary review and onsite investigation. The auditing result will be written and sent to Ecolabel Auditing Board for review. The product passed the auditing will have certification document issued by the EPA. Manufacturers. can use this certification document as proof documents when making bidding.

Q9

What are the differences between Type I and Type II products auditing procedure?

Type I products, or so called Ecolabeled Products, have clear specifications for applicants to follow; yet Type II products’ eco-friendliness characteristics are all “claimed” by its manufacturers and certified by EPA. Also, some other major differences are 1. Ecolabeled Products have Ecolabel printed on their packaging, yet Type II products only have certification statement as proof documents when making bidding; 2. Type I products’ auditings are all carried out by following auditing specifications, yet Type II products will be audited by technical evaluation team composed of scholars and specialists. Evaluation team audits these products by characteristics claimed by manufacturers. Note: all ecolabels for Type I and Type II products are valid only for 2 years.

Q10

How long will it take to apply for Ecolabel?

The duration will be depended on if there is a calling for auditing and if the application materials submitted by applicant are completed. Also, applicants have chance to supply documents later if the initial documents submitted are not sufficient. Basically it will take 1 to 2 months, the submission of document due to insufficient application materials will take maximally 2 months.

Q11

Are there any time limits with the documents for applying Ecolabel?

Documents for new Ecolabel application should be at least one year new, for Ecolabel extension should be three years new. Due to the decision of 8th Council of Ecolabel Academic Reviewal & Evaluation in 2006, water-based paint, washing powder, dishwashing detergent, shampoo, kitchen cleaner, floor cleaner, soap, recycled tonner, and biodegradable plastic may be unstable as product itself and during production. These nine products have to be randomly sampled from selling places by both applicant and member of commissioned executive unit, send to approved laboratory for product test. These products need to be resample and send to laboratory test again, when every time it applies Ecolabel extension.

Q12

Can products apply for Ecolabel even if it’s not made in Taiwan

Yes, it can. As Taiwan joined world trade organization, part of the Ecolabel application process has been changed to ensure fairness between local and foreign companies. Now, the application process is almost the same for both local and foreign companies. The only thing for foreign company to be aware is rules number 3, 9 and 10 of section 3 within the “Ecolabel application instruction.” Due to foreign officinal documents may not be recognized by commissioned executive unit, all foreign documents has to be verified by Taiwanese offices abroad before it being process, documents from China, has to be verified by Straits Exchange Foundation. Executive unit is now accepting Chinese and English documents only, documents in all other languages should be translated into Chinese or English.

Q13

When applied for use of recycled product, how can the percentage of recycled material been proofed?

Applicants shall prepare documents of imported materials and product information for at least 6 months new, information should includes tax invoices when recycle materials were purchased and shipping report (to calculate product weight), for auditors to calculate mass balance. After documents being audited, auditor will do on-site inspection, checking the percentage of recycled materials within the product.

Q14

When reapply other product(s), can previously issued “proof of no environment factory harm” being used again

So far, commissioned executive unit do accept “proof of non-harm environment factory” that been issued by Environmental Protection Bureau within 4 months time. Applicants have to apply for a new proof, if the old one expired.

Q15

Has Ecolabel application charges changed?

No, it has not. Ecolabel application fee is not charged by number of application products, but number of application times. It cost $20,000 (tax included), when company first apply, and cost $15,000 (tax included) when company apply for second time (for both new product application and product extension). Each application will be charge separately.

Q16

Can products apply for Ecolabel even if it’s not on the list of applicable Ecolabeled products?

No, it cannot. List of applicable Ecolabeled products is draft by professions that invited by commissioned executive unit, it also include ideas from the field and has to be approved by Environmental Protection Administration before it created. However, products not on the list of applicable Ecolabeled products, can still apply Type II Ecolabel by provide required documents/information.

Q17

Why “single manufacture” contract has to be included in Ecolabel documents?

Ecolabel does not only pay attention to product itself, but also inspect producers’ manufacturing environment, if products were produced by contracted manufacture, products should be checked to ensure if it only produced by contracted manufacture. If company wants to add or change contracted manufacture(s), they have to inform executive unit before they do so.

Q18

Must medium or small sized enterprises have ISO 9000 certification before applying for Ecolabel?

There are many medium or small sized enterprises already obtained the Ecolabel, it shows they are able to obtain Ecolabel. ISO 9000 or ISO 14000 certifications are not requirements of applying Ecolabel, however, enterprises certified by these ISO standards will be more convincible in their abilities of obtaining Ecolabel certification.

Q19

Can I get Ecolabel straight away by holding ISO 14000 or ISO 14001 certificates?

No, you cannot. ISO 14001 and ISO 14002 certificates are both issued for environmental management systems, the focus is not along product itself but the system, which contain different purpose from Ecolabel. Also, when customers purchase products from producer with ISO 14001 certificates, it only shows they support environmental protection, but not guaranteed if customers will be benefit, it also makes harder when doing marketing for product. If product applied Ecolabel, customers can be sure to be benefit (through water saving, electricity saving or others), producer will have more rooms to market its product way more than getting ISO 14000 or ISO14001 certificates only.

Q20

Can small medium enterprises get any support from guiding supporting units when apply for Ecolabel?

Ecolabel application process is not that complicate after all; there should be no need to get support from any other guiding units. Also, executive unit can be contacted for information and questions relates to application.

Q21

How much labors and money should be involved when applying Ecolabel?

Ecolabel is for company to proof its management and product’s environmental standard, if company has already got a good management system, it can apply for Ecolabel when required documents are gathered.

Q22

When printing company apply Ecolabel, does it have to proof all paper it used were following Ecolabel regulation.

Yes, it does. Several paper products has already pass Ecolabel audit. Using these paper products for business, company just have to proof as all papers used were following Ecolabel regulation. Information can be found by call executive units on 0800026945 ext. 1 or download from http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw/greenlife/green-life/file_download.aspx

Q23

When will Ecolabel committee auditing conference be hold, which enables company to estimate Ecolabel application time?

We are sorry, as auditing conference requires number of auditors get together, it is almost impossible to pre-schedule auditing conference. Normally, there will be auditing conference hold each month or two. Ecolabel audit will not process until all other application process being done. The application process may be shortening by getting all other documents ready at once.

Q24

Wastes recycle system and other related laws have changed, does it effect Ecolabel application?

According to the decision of first audit conference in 1999, due to the change of relational recycled regulations, Ecolabel auditing has cancelled the requirement for product recycle rate, but ask company provide proof of payments relates to wastes recycle system or any other relational documents.

Q25

Can I apply Ecolabel even if part of my products were made in China?

All foreign Ecolabel applications has been united, as there is no office aboard in China, documents has to be process by Straits Exchange Foundation. According rule of Taiwan and China relation section 7 and two side agreements in auditing. Ways to get approved are included as follows: Local manufactured in China get documents provide by local Environmental Protection Bureau, after it proofed by local council, send to Taiwan Straits Association to get proof. There are two ways for product inspections: After importer passed product inspections, test results should get proofed by third party. If manufacture has difficulties to do so, inspection can be done on site by execute units with extra charges.

Q26

What support will I get from Environment and Development Foundation when apply Ecolabel in other countries?

There are dozens of Ecolabel commissions around the world. Till 2006, there are 9 countries has mutual recognition with Taiwan, which are Canada, U.S., Thailand, Korea, Czech, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Ukraine, Ecolabel can be applied within these 9 countries. Also, Environment and Development Foundation (EDF) is member of Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN), and general manager of EDF serve as commissioner of GEN, related information and contacts can be provided.

Q27

Can food and medicine apply for Ecolabel?

Food and medicine normally relates to health and safety issues, Ecolabel organization does not intent to set specific requirements for food and medicine when apply Ecolabel, if company wants to leverage its products to become more environmental friendly, it can try improve the packaging or material.

Q28

Will some of the Ecolabel application sampling processes be changed soon?

Due to the decision of 8th Council of Ecolabel Academic Reviewal & Evaluation in 2006, water-based paint, washing powder, dishwashing detergent, shampoo, kitchen cleaner, floor cleaner, soap, recycled tonner, and biodegradable plastic may be unstable as product itself and during production. These nine products have to be randomly sampled from selling places by both applicant and member of executive unit, send to approved laboratory for product test. These products needs to be resample and send to laboratory test again, when every time it applies Ecolabel extension.

Q29

Do products with Ecolabel issued from other countries have to reapply Ecolabel in Taiwan?

Yes, it has to. Taiwan has mutual recognition with 9 other countries, includes Canada, U.S., Thailand, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Ukraine and Czech. Mutual recognition means countries accept other country’s assessment report as to reduce work for companies, and increase the flow of Ecolabel between countries.

Q30

What documents need to be prepared when apply Ecolabel?

1. 3 copies of company license, and Certificate of Business Registration
2. 3 copies of factory registered license
3. Commercial agent should provide, company needs to provide 3 copies of product manufacturing license or proof of commercial agent authority.
4. 3 copies of proofs provide by local environmental protection bureau as company has not been punished within the past year.
5. 3 copies of contract or license in waste management process and waste storage management, within the past year
6. 3 Copies of documents that proof its recycling system.
7. 3 copies of documents that proof its standards compete with Ecolabel.
8. 3 copies of documents that proof its safety standards compete with legislations.
9. Proof or documents to proof it compete with rules of label presents.
10. Companies import goods, have to provide 3 copies of documents to proof as there were no pollutions within the past year.
11. After importers pass its tests/inspections, it should get proof by third party for its tests/inspection result.
12. Product brochure.
13. Other documents.

Q31

Where can I process documents for Ecolabel auditing?

1. All documents that need to be audit has to be done by laboratories that authorized by Republic of China laboratory system. Information can be found in http://www.cnla.org.tw/, or contact secretariat of Republic of China laboratory system on (03)571-0233 ext. 245~246 to get catalogs.
2. Pollution analysis has to be done by laboratories that authorized by Environmental Protection Administration. Information can be found in http://www.niea.gov.tw/asp/epa/epa_wel.asp or contact laboratories on (03)491-5818.
3.Due to the decision of 6th Council of Ecolabel Academic Reviewal & Evaluation in 2004，when company handing analysis result from laboratories for Ecolabel application, proof of laboratories’ authority should also be attached. If analysis was processed under non-approval way, laboratories should than provides related information of its analysis for Council of Ecolabel. Also, laboratories should follow the process of “Standard procedural of Type I and Type II Ecolabel application.”

Q32

What are the focuses of manufacturer inspection?

1. To ensure products are produced at the manufacturer.
2. To ensure products match all requirements as no CFCs used recycled material content, no use of hazardous material.
3. No pollutions being found in manufacturer.
4. Products manufacturing standard operating procedures should be no different from what is written within application documents.
5. If inspection report form 3rd party was attached, it should then be written in the report as attachment.
6. Manufactures that been inspect would not be inspect for a second time within 2 years time, but applicant should provide proofs as all products were produced from same the manufacture, such as producer standard operation procedure, photos of manufacturer during producing process, import declarations.

Q33

What are the focuses of production inspection?

1.Ensure manufacture remains no change,
2.Ensure manufacture’s surrounded environment and pollution control,
3.Ensure no invasion during the production process,
4.Ensure raw material been used meet standard,
5.Check how Ecolabel being used

Q34

How can I put Ecolabel on a small size product, can I use Ecolabel box to pack it?

You can print Ecolabel logo on the product package, you can also print Ecolabel on the product catalogue. There are no specific sized or placed required for Ecolabel to be shown, but reasons to backup Ecolabel obtain has to be printed. You can decide where Ecolabel should present in different sizes, colors.

Q35

In what circumstances Ecolabel standard may change? What should be done after changed?

Ecolabel standard may changed in the following circumstances:
1.3 years after rules been set,
2.when Ecolabeled product is zero, as no company applies for it,
3.Inspect method changed or being replaced by new methods,
4.Contradiction with other regulations,
5.Products similar to the actual Ecolabeled product has improved. Company have to provide evidence to meet the new standard within
6 months time if standard changed, Ecolabel will otherwise be no longer in forced.

Q36

Do products made by recycled tires have to get materials from recycling fund management board?

According to EPA registry, regulations with recycled lubricating oil、recycled tires have to be proofed by recycling fund management board before it use as raw materials. But recycled tires from utility corporate, or from companies that authorized by central government, does not have to be proofed by recycling fund management board.

Q37

Where can I complain to if I found dissatisfaction toward executive unit?

If Ecolabel holder found any dissatisfaction toward commissioned executive unit, or other concerned party found dissatisfaction toward Ecolabel holder, they can file paper documents to express their complains.

Q38

Where can I get Ecolabel in English version?

You can get Ecolabel in English version from Environment and Development Foundation.

Q39

Does Ecolabel serial number has to be added with Ecolabel logo?

As there are several similar Ecolabeled products. If print Ecolabel logo with serial number together, it than has to have different prints for different product, which increase cost for printing and easy to get wrong. In 2006, EPA has than changed Ecolabel regulation by cancelled requirement to print Ecolabel logo with serial number together. Color of Ecolabel logo has also been regulated by using color number 3415C of pantone matching system, but company can use different color due to the color of the package by apply for authorization. Size of Ecolabel can also be changed with original scale, as long as it does not smaller than 0.5cm times 1cm. Also, Ecolabel logo should only use single color to print with title (Ecolabel, Water Saving Label, etc.) below the logo.

Q40

Are there regulations to follow when print Ecolabel logo on flyers?

Ecolabel logo has to be green, when printed on flyers, related slogans are also required to be added as to avoid others get confused the flyer itself as Ecolabeled product. You can contact EPA on 02-23117722 ext. 2924 for further information.

Q41

Does it require change report when the package/appearance of Ecolabeled product changed?

When Ecolabeled products’ package/appearance changed, Ecolabel regulations have to be reviewed again as the package/appearance as it may bridge the Ecolabel regulation. Photos, explanations and test report, should submit to Ecolabel commissioned executive unit. Even, if change of package/appearance did not bridge the Ecolabel regulation, new photos of product should still be submit to Ecolabel commissioned executive unit for updates. If you are unsure the needs for data submission, you can than ask Ecolabel commissioned executive unit for guide.

Q42

Can product contain some Ecolabel parts have Ecolabel logo stick on the product itself if it doesn’t have package?

Ecolabel logo cannot be used for products only contain some Ecolabeled parts (e.g. Cars with Ecolabeled break pad, Wireless phone with Ecolabeled battery), Use of Ecolabel logo for Ecolabeled parts have to follow the Ecolabel regulation.

Q43

Will recycling company get subsidies when it applies Ecolabel for its product?

1. According to Important notice of Ecolabeled promotion Plan, “companies have to pay auditing and testing fee, with supported documents when apply Ecolabel…” there is no subsidy been mentioned.
2. Subsidies has included within related “Waste management” and “Recycling” regulations, as clause no. 17 of “Waste management” regulation, recycling fund management board can support company doing waste management or recycle system, according to clause no.23 of “Recycling” regulation, funds invested in researches, materials, tools, equipments for recycling should be taxed free.

Q44

If vertical relation between units has changed, how and what should be changed within green consumption system? Do unit serial numbers has to be changed?

1. When vertical relation between units within green consumption system needs to be changed, overhead unit should issue official request to EPA for change.
2. User IDs for green consumption system are the same as inter-entity supply system (http://sucon3.pcc.gov.tw), there are no needs to change unit serial number.

Q45

What can I do if message box pop up during green consumption user prove process while password cannot be sent to users?

The described situation may be caused by internet failure, we suggest you close your web browser and start again. If you still cannot authorize password to proofed users, please contact “Ecolabel and Green consumption Service” on 0800-026945 ext. 2.

Q46

Wooden furniture as designated green consumption participated goods, but with only one wooden furniture manufacture produce furniture with Ecolabel. How can green consumption declaration form be filled when company choose not to buy Ecolabel furniture due to geographic problem.

Green consumption plan is using government’s procurement budgets to create less environmental impact by choosing Ecolabel products and create green consumption trends. So, even though there may be geographic barriers when purchase Ecolabel furniture, we still hope and require you to purchase furniture with Ecolabel. Green consumption declaration form has to be filled when purchased designated green consumption goods. At the mean time, EPA will try to push more manufacture produce Ecolabeled products.

Q47

Why the statistics data didn’t change after the information within green consumption declaration form been change?

Information changes within green consumption declaration form is always update in next day as statistic data update at 12:00 am everyday. Please check statistics data in the next day after you change information within green consumption declaration form.

Q48

How can we confirm if Ecolabel of the product we want to purchase has expired but now applied for extension?
Also, should the product be purchased as Ecolife product or non-Ecolife product?

Please first go “Greenlivng” website to check product information, if it shows “Ecolabel extension application is now processing, due to decision of second review in 2006, Ecolabel extention is permitted”, this means the product has applied for Ecolabel extension and has grant permitted. The new expire day for Ecolabel would also be published under product information, as long as products are purchased before Ecolabel’s expire day, it will be counted as Ecolabeled product. If no information was found for certain products, may because the product is new to Ecolabel application, as long as products are purchased before it granted Ecolabel, it will be counted as non-Ecolabeled product.
If there are any other problems, please call “Ecolabel and Green Consumption” service line on 0800026945. You have to be more careful when purchased product is under application for extension process; as if product did not pass Ecolabel, it will than count as non-Ecolabel when fill green consumption declaration form. Only if product did pass Ecolabel, green consumption can than count as Ecolabeled product when fill green consumption declaration form.

Q49

How can Green consumption participation form be filled with Ecolabeled products rental expense?

When rent products through “inter-entity supply system”, such as photocopy machine, should still priorities Ecolabeled products as first choice as to leverage green consumption percentage. If rental expense import “inter-entity supply system” shown as zero or if you rent product without using the “inter-entity supply system”, green consumption declaration form has to be filled out manually. Formula as following: Designated green consumption percentage = Amount of green consumption of participated goods / (Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods with Ecolabel + Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods without Ecolabel)

Q50

How should green consumption declaration be filled if rental products were mixed with both Ecolabeled products and non-Ecolabeled products?

When fill green consumption declaration please separate the rental expenses for both Ecolabel and non-Ecolabel. Formula as following: Designated green consumption percentage = Amount of green consumption of participated goods / (Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods with Ecolabel + Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods without Ecolabel)

Q51

How can I confirm green consumption declaration after login to green consumption system?

Please click “Green consumption declaration preview”, choose the month and click “search” to view green consumption declaration. After information been confirmed, click “green consumption declaration confirm”, message “Please ensure green consumption declaration” will pop up, you can than click “confirm” to complete current month’s green consumption declaration confirmation. If you still unsure about confirm green consumption declaration process, you can call customer service number on 0800-026945 ext. 2 for help.

Q52

Why cannot I login with my login ID and password?

Please check if you have pressed the cap lock.

Q53

I have already copied the password from the email system sent to me, why I still cannot login?

When use mouse to copy password, you may over copied password with spaces, we suggest you copy the password from back to front when use mouse or typed the password by keyboard.

Q54

Why there shows no information, even after I filled green consumption declaration form?

2008 Green consumption declaration form are now available to be filled, please make sure if the year of information you want to preview is correct.

Q55

Why order record from “Inter-entity supply system” didn’t add to green consumption system?

Order record from “Inter-entity supply system”, will be load into green consumption system 21 days after, if data didn’t load for more than 21 days, you should check green consumption system, if there are any other accounts got a same name as yours. If not please call Ecolabel service line on 0800-026945 ext. 2.

Q56

The products I purchased through Inter-entity supply system are Ecolabeled products, why it shows different in green consumption system as it’s not Ecolabeled product?

As inter-entity supply system did not force manufacture to provide their Ecolabel information, after ETL process to green consumption system, green consumption systems will determine products as non-Ecolabeled products if no Ecolabel information attached. Each orders should than be changed manually with following processes:
1. Click “Green consumption declaration preview”,
2. Click “Detailed information”,
3. Click “Change product categories” from “non-Ecolabel” to “Ecolabel” with reason of change and Ecolabel serial number.
Note: From January 2008, manufactures have to provide Ecolabeled product serial number to government procurement sector of bank of Taiwan.

Q57

How can I create new account?

1. Click “Unit Management”,
2. Click “Management”,
3. Click “Add New Unit”
Note: If the new account you create request central procurement, you need than inform EPA.

Q58

I have not received new password after my overhead unit permitted my user ID?

Different mail server may have different settings. Generally it takes 3 hours to receive email for the new password, but may be longer if many users were using the system at the same time. Password will send to your email just in few moments. We also suggest you check the junk mailbox.

Q59

If computers purchased through inter-entity supply system doesn’t have Ecolabel, should green consumption declaration form still be filled? If not, how can I change data within green consumption system imports from inter-entity supply system?

Computers are designated green consumption participated goods as there are Ecolabel computers available on the market, if computers purchased does not have Ecolabel, green consumption declaration form should still be filled. Because, Ecolabel computer should be considered first as it’s available on the market. If data imports from inter-entity supply system appear wrong within green consumption system, you could than follow the following processes:
1. Click “Preview green consumption declaration form”
2. “Details”
3. Change “Categories” from “Calculated” to “Not calculated”, and write reasons below.

Q60

There are no Ecolabel monitors for the size I want, do I still have to fill green consumption declaration form?

So far, there are Ecolabel issued for 15”、17” and 19” monitors, green consumption declaration form must be filled out when purchase these monitors. But when purchase monitors with 14”、21”, there are no need for green consumption declaration form to be filled.

Q61

How can I purchase Ecolabeled product through inter-entity supply system?

1. First go to “Inter-entity supply system” at http://sucon3.pcc.gov.tw, click “detailed search” and choose “Type I Ecolabeled product” on product search page. Information about e-procurement process, can be downloaded from Greenliving website at http://greenliving .epa.gov.tw under Educational and Related Information page
2. Information about Ecolabe product can also be found with search function at Greenliving website.

Q62

What can I do if information on the green consumption declare system were incorrect?

Please go green consumption declare system within greenliving website to confirm if information were correct, if not, you can click on detailed information button to correct it.

Q63

What is the designated green consumption percentage in 2008?

The designated green consumption percentage in 2008 is 85%

Q64

Can products supplied by county/city council calculate as green consumption percentage?

If the product is purchased by county/city council, it than calculate as green consumption percentage for county/city council, not to any other departments.

Q65

What are the regulations relates to Procurement Act

According to the Procurement Act: 1. Suggested by MP when revise legislation of procurement and announced on May 1998, executed on 27th of May, 1999. 2. Ecolabeled producer can sell products to governmental units within 10% price different than non-Ecolabeled products.
Rules for Green consumption priorities for government orders:
1. Announced by Public construction commission, Ececutive Yuan and EPA on the 26th of May, 1999 and executed on the next day. 2. Tender documents should have information included as follows: Copy of documents proof products’ obtained Ecolabel, compare products’ ability/capability with similar products, calculation price different and benefit of environment protection of Ecolabeled product, and other related documents.
Recycled Act: 1. Ecolabeled products should be priorities for government procurement

Q66

How does green consumption participate percentage been assessed?

1. Designated green consumption percentage as 75% result, Non-designated green consumption percentage as 5% result, 3.Overall participation in green consumption as 20% result.

Q67

Designated green consumption participated goods include what?

1. Office Automation paper, 2.Stationeries, written papers, 3.Napkins, 4.Computers (include personal computers, monitors, mouse, keyboards, printers, toners). 5. Black and white copier, 6.Fax machines, 7.All in one printers, 8.Laptops, 9.Refregerators, 10.Air conditions, 11.Wachin machines, 12.Microwaves, 13.Dehumidifiers, 14.Water dispenser, 15.Lighting equipment, 16.Closestool, 17.Compost, 18.Cleaning products (dishwashing liquid, shampoo, floor, bathroom, kitchen cleaner, soup and others.), 19.Water-based paint, 20.Recycled wooden products (include wooden furniture), 21.Recycled fabric products (added from year 2008).

Q68

Where can I get more information about green consumption participated goods?

1. Greenliving website: greenliving.epa.gov.tw, you can search green products by typing the key words, 2. “Green consumption guide”, there are two issues each year, which listed all product with Ecolabel.

Q69

Questions associated with account and password when using online reporting system?

Default user ID is a code provides by Central Trust of China, password will be generated by system after your user ID has been permitted by your overhead unit. You should check and fill all personal details and reset password to your own.
As the password will send out only if user ID been authorized by others, it may take a while for the password to get password, depend on your overhead unit. You can try different passwords up to three times before your ID to be locked when you don’t remember the exact password.

Q70

Where can I get information about green consumption of different divisions?

After login, click “preview green consumption declaration form” on the left panel. Note: You can always use “preview green consumption declaration form” to preview information about green consumption state, as to avid same information being fill twice.

Q71

Can Ecolabeled products rental expense be filled into green consumption participate form?

Ecolabeled product’s rental expense can be calculated as part of green consumption, even if products’ Ecolabel has expired, rental expense can still be counted as green consumption for 6 years, but will be terminated whenever the rental stopped.

Q72

What can I do if the product shown form the website does not match with its Ecolabel serial number?

There may be a chance, the Ecolabel serial number has been pirated, when the product shown from the website does not match with its Ecolabel serial number, you can check products from Greenliving website at http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw or call Institute of Environment and Resource on 03-5916216

Q73

What can I do if the Ecolabel of purchase products has expired a, while no other information can be found?

Greenliving website updates regularly, if Ecolabel cannot be found from the site, you can use “green consumption guide” that published by us, which can be downloaded from Ecolabel information website as electronic version.

Q74

How should purchase quantity be filled?

When fill green consumption participate form, purchase quantity has to be filled as numbers, eg. As 10 computers were purchased, purchase quantity will be 10, when exact quantity cannot be measured, just fill estimated quantity.

Q75

When purchase designated green consumption participated goods without type I Ecolabel but type II or III, how should the purchase order been record?

When purchased good is designated green consumption participated good, green consumption declaration form has to be filled. When purchased good is under designated green consumption participated goods without type I Ecolabel, the green consumption declaration form still have to be filled.

Q76

What are the frequent ask questions when filling green consumption participates form?

*If the products you purchase doesn’t have Ecolabel, when filling green consumption participate form, you have to write the reasons not buying it.
*When purchase type I Ecolabeled products that doesn’t request to be participated, type II, and type III Ecolabel, you only required to fill amount of purchase but not the green consumption declaration form.
*Keyboards and mouse have not yet regulated to be green consumption participated goods
*When keyboard and mouse were include when purchase personal computer, the amount of keyboard and mouse doesn’t need to be taken out
*Fax rolls, microwaves, energy saving fluorescent have not yet regulated to be green consumption participate goods.
*Computer servers have not yet been regulated to be green consumption participate goods.
*If there are no Ecolabel air conditions available on the market for certain level of air conditions, then there are no needs for fill green consumption participate form
*If there are no Ecolabel fluorescents available on the market for certain type of fluorescents, then there are no needs for fill green consumption participate form.
*If there are no Ecolabel refrigerators available on the market for certain level of refrigerators, then there are no needs for fill green consumption participate form.

Q77

Where can I get more product information?。

You can get products information from Geenliving website at http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw/

Q78

How to search manufacture information of Ecolabeled products?

You can click product search function on the left panel of Greenliving website.

Q79

How does search function of the new website works?

Please use product search function of Greenliving website.

Q80

1. As the designate green consumption’s percentage was 83% in 2007, how does green consumption percentage calculate?
2. How can private institutes push for green consumption?
3. When did green consumption been regulated?

1. Designated green consumption percentage = Amount of green consumption of participated goods / (Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods with Ecolabel + Purchase amount of designated green consumption participated goods without Ecolabel)
2. Green consumption participated goods listed by government can be use as guide, private institute can then set its own green consumption percentage.
3. The green consumption regulation starts execute from January 2002

Q81

How can I get information about green stores within different cities and counties?

You can click “Ecolabeled product distribution channel”, under the left panel of Greenlving website, or you can just click the “green store information” banner on the right hand side of the greenliving website, then choose counties/cities with “Search place” drop list, after that, click on “search” button, green stores within certain counties/cities will then showed up on the page.

Q82

I have already applied and obtain rights to operate green store, why I still cannot login to Greeliving product management website sometimes? What should I do.?

When you login greenliving system after apply green store, you can change all personal information or products information. The new product you add to your green store will then goes for auditing. You will not be able to login greenliving system, until the auditing process is finished. After that you can then login to greenliving system and add the next product to your green store.

Q83

What can I do, if my Greenliving member login has been locked?

When login greenliving system, you were allow to attempts three times with your login number and password, member login will be lock in fourth time when password entered wrong. You can call “Ecolabel and Green consumption Customer Service” on 0800-026945 to unlock your member login. Otherwise, you can use “password forgotten” function on the greenliving’s homepage, system will send password to your email straight away.

Q84

What is Ecolabel?

Follow by world trend, EPA in Taiwan has encourage manufactures to lower pollutions, reduce waste, increase recycle and cut energy consumption through product’s life cycle. On the other side, EPA has encourage consumers to choose product that’s recyclable, low polluted and low energy consumption to create better environment. Ecolabel designed as a “clean Earth surrounded by a leaf”.
Ecolabeled products have to be recyclable, low polluted, low energy consumed and to be proofed by Ecolabel Auditing Board.

Q85

How are Ecolabel different from each type?

Type I Ecolabel has been launched for several years from now and quite succeeds products categories will be offered each year for Ecolabel applications, for these products, market research will be done while specialist will be gathering sets up Ecolabel’s auditing rules. Due to the tough audit system and complicate process, it always takes times for Ecolabel to be issued, so when every year, products categories to be select for Ecolabel audit, it always choose products that are most popular and regular used. As it’s difficult to process all kinds of produces within short time, Type II Ecolabel is available for manufacture to apply, even if the product was not yet officially available for Ecolabel audit, manufacture can still apply for Type II Ecolabel by passing similar audit process as for Type I Ecolabel.

Q86

Where can I buy green products?

Supermarket: When shopping, customers may need to pay more attentions to Ecolabel, as green products may be placed within the same shelf as normal product.
Buy Green: http://www.buygreentw.net
Green Living: http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw/

Q87

Does laser printer toner can only be returned to its manufacture after wear out?

No, it doesn’t. Rules for “Original Equipment” only requires original equipment manufacturer to establish recycled system, also when customer returned used toner, manufacturer have to take it as part of requirement for Ecolabel issuing. For customers, there are no requires to return used toner back to original equipment manufacturer nor, any other manufactures.

Q88

How to choose Ecolabeled Product?

Several products are now available as Ecolabeled products. Purchase Ecolabeled products will not just makes the environment become better, as Ecolabel was proofed by EPA, product quality can be highly ensured, provide purchaser with environmental friendly, money saving product. So, when next time you do shopping, look for products with EcoLabel, you can also go Greenliving website at http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw/greenlife/faq/faq.aspx to search information for Ecolabeled product and its manufacture.

Q89

How are the auditing processes different between different types of Ecolabel?

Type I products, which are the typical Ecolabeled products, has set of rules and regulations for companies to follow, Ecolabel can be printed on product package or product itself. Type II products can be declared by company itself first, and its Ecolabel can than be obtained by EPA, “labels” will not be obtained but certificates. Specialized audit team may be grouped for product auditing, inspection, and product sampling.

Q90

What are the different between Type I, II and III Ecolabel?

According to the Procurement Act and “Green consumption priorities for government orders” rules: Type I is issued to those products that recognized by EPA as Ecolabeled products, Type II is issued to those products that were not originally categorized by EPA, but have than proofed by EPA as recyclable, low polluted and low energy consumption. Type III is issued by other agencies under Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Q91

How does Type II Ecolabel become available?

The procurement Act was bring into force on the 20th of May, this year. After years Environmental Protection Administration’s hard work, Green consumption clause was finally added to the Procurement Act as clause No 96, products with Ecolabel can be sell within 10% price different. To make the Act really works, Public Works Committee and EPA has create a set of rules as “Green consumption priorities for government orders”, Ecolabeled products were then separated into three types, type I, II and III. Type I Ecolabel was launched for several years. Type II is issued to those products that were not originally categorized by EPA, but have than proofed by EPA as recyclable, low polluted and low energy consumption. Type III is issued by other agencies under Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Q92

How can Ecolife Product be trusted by consumers?

(1)Ecolabel will issue only to those products of the top 20%~30% provide least environmental impact within the product category.
(2)Ecolabel is issued by third party, which shows the fairness of mutually exclusive from manufactures or any other parties.
(3)Ecolabel become a benchmark for products within the same category.
(4)The process of Ecolabel determination is totally transparent.
(5)Ecolabel have multiple criteria, which allows customers to understand the products better and choose the best products.
(6)Ecolabel can be replaced for 3 different labels together. (Instead of having Energy Saving Label, Water Saving Label, Recyclable label on the product, these 3 labels can be replaced by Ecolabel)

Q93

What is green consumption?

Green consumption can be explained as a way of simple lifestyle, focus on needs but not wants. Also, consider the environmental impact made by products before buying; choose products that provide less pollutions and environmental impact due to the product itself, ingredients, and waste management. As consumer changed consumption pattern, it will then drives companies to develop more green products as recyclable, low polluted and low energy consumptions.

Q94

What are the green products?

Green products are products produced in means of environmental friendliness in its life cycle. Such concept is a relative concept, not an absolute concept. Different environment will induce different result. Eco-friendliness, by ISO 14021 standards, they are defined as follows: recycling rate, reusable, refillable, resource consumption reduction, recyclable, energy recycling, breakable design, solid waste reduction, able to compost, energy efficiency or energy saving, degradable, water saving, and recycle prolonging.

Q95

What is the difference between green consumption and green procurement?

Green consumption and green procurement all mean to encourage manufacturers or retailers to offer eco-friendly services or products through consumers’ choice of using eco-friendly products or services via consumption or procurement. Meanwhile, in our daily use of language, Green Consumption can be considered as consumers are aware of the importance of environmental protection and therefore choosing eco-friendly products. The scope includes production, transportation, selling, disposal process, recyclability, and product packaging; or the consumers’ behaviors when choosing products made of eco-friendly materials. Green procurement emphasizes the choice made by government and enterprises when choosing products made by eco-friendly materials.

Q96

What methods I can used to save electricity and pay less electricity bill?

(1) You can use electricity saving light bulb, this bulb saves electricity 60% more than traditional light bulb. (2) White or light tuned paint with higher light reflect rate shall be painted on the ceiling and wall to reflect more lights back and reduces the number of light bulb used. (3) Locations in balcony or hallway needs lower light and can install less number of light bulb; also, lighting can be installed one next to each other; high illumination demanded locations can adopt partial lighting along with general lighting to increase illumination. (4) Regularly wipe out the lightings to avoid dust will reduce the illumination. (5) Install automatic sensor to shut-down the lighting if there is no one in the meeting room, bath room, or lunge room. As people leave the room, the sensor will shut the light off to save electricity. (6) Choose office electronic products with electricity saving mode when not in use. (7) Choose air conditioners, refrigerators, humid removers with Ecolabel or Energy Saving Mark.

Q97

How to choose green building material? Are they expensive?

Please go to Greenliving Platform (http://greenliving.epa.gov.tw/) to see the reference of Type I Product, e.g. recycled concrete, wood, or water typed paint. Also, Green Building Material Mark by Architecture and building Research Institute, Ministry of The Interior (http://www.cabc.org.tw/gbm/HTML/website/index.asp, or call 02-86676398, ext. 171 or 172) can give you plenty of information. The prices are not expensive.

Q98

What Green Mark or consumption mark available in Taiwan? What are their corresponding authorities?

EPA—Ecolabel, EPA—Type II Certification, EPA—Energy Star, EPA—Recycled Gasoline Gas Mark, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Water Resources Agency --Water Saving Mark, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Bureau of Energy—Energy Saving Mark, Architecture and building Research Institute, Ministry of The Interior -- Green Construction, Construction and planing agency, Mistry of The Interior---Green Building Material Mark, Council of Agriculture--- Organic Food Certification, MOA International Foundation of Nature Ecology.、Taiwan Organic Production Association、Tse-Xin Organic Agriculture Foundation、Environment and Development Foundation--- Products without Ozone Destruction (ODC)

Q99

How to choose utility saving and eco-friendly air conditioner?

Please calculate how much BTU you will need, then compare the EER value encrypted on the machine. EER value if raises at 0.1, then electricity consumption will be reduced by 2%. Air conditioners located outdoor shall not directly exposed under sunshine and cover shall be installed to avoid sunshine exposure. Air fan shall be turned on to make the cooling effect easier to present. Wash the filter regularly and repair the machine regularly can extend the life cycle.

Q100

What environmental benefits brought by using solar energy water heater?

Using solar energy water heater is far better than gas heater, because it reduces a lot of carbon dioxide emission and easily to operate. Its safety is also better than gas heater like avoiding inhaling toxic substance or explosion. Around NT$1,900 dollars can be saved annually.

Q101

Why choose 100% regenerated paper to help our environment?

Assuming consumers use 100% regenerated toilet paper or hand cleaning paper, specifically for toilet use, with 300 g per pack, total consumption of 100% regenerate paper is 3,165 tones nationwide. This is equivalent of 63,308 trees. Therefore, choosing 100% regenerated paper is much better than choosing virgin material paper in terms of forest protection.

Q102

Would water saving toilet help our environment?

Definitely. One-stage water saving toilet can save 60 liters daily, and 19,520,000 liters annually nationwide. Such amount is equivalent to 0.13 Minde Water Reservoir.

Q103

What are the benefits of buying ecolabeled computers and their peripheral products?

According to the ecolabel specification, within 5 to 10 minutes, computer CPU and monitor must be automatically entered low energy consumption stage (less than 30 Watts), when not in use. Packaging material can not contain ozone destruction substance. Material used to make keyboard and mouse must be came from recycled plastics.