Blue Angel: New requirements for mobile phones and textiles | Umweltbundesamt

Blue Angel for textiles (RAL-UZ 154)

The criteria for textiles which were valid since 2011 have been reviewed, extended and adapted to the latest findings of research following consultations with numerous stakeholders from industry, associations and NGOs. The changes in brief:

• Technical textiles (e.g. functional clothing) and bed linens (e.g. pillows and duvet covers) are now also eligible for the Blue Angel for textiles. Requirements were therefore added to the catalogue of criteria which address the production process of laminates and membranes, down and feathers from waterfowl and filler materials.
• Criteria for recycled fibres were defined.
• Requirements for flame retardants and nanomaterials were fleshed out.
• Requirements of working conditions were laid out in detail.

Blue Angel for mobile phones (RAL-UZ 106)

The criteria for award of the Blue Angel to mobile phones underwent a major overhaul in 2016 in a collaborative effort with representatives from research and science, environmental associations, NGOs and manufacturers.

The new catalogue of criteria with which a device must comply to be awarded the ecolabel ensures among others its longevity:

• The battery must meet high quality standards and be replaceable by consumers without special expert knowledge.
• Spare parts must be available for the components which are likely to break down first (esp. battery, front glass, display).
• Any personal data stored on the device shall be easily and securely deleted to enable its risk-free, second-hand use.

It is also the first time that the Blue Angel takes consideration of the raw material supply chain of "conflict resources" (tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold). Strict regulations also apply for working conditions at manufacturing plants: compliance shall verified on-site by independent third parties. The Blue Angel thus takes account of the fact that consumers – in particular with regard to smartphones – are placing more value on environmental and social standards.