WP1 assessed existing labelling and certification schemes for bio based products by analysing 25 schemes across ten representative value chains. The analysis covered environmental, social, and economic sustainability aspects, as well as robustness and feasibility. Results showed strong coverage of environmental issues such as chemical use and waste management, but gaps in climate change mitigation, circularity, biodiversity, packaging, and product durability. Social criteria were included but varied in depth. Economic analysis indicated that certification can improve market access and price premiums, while costs and administrative burdens remain barriers, especially for small producers. The findings were synthesised into science based recommendations to improve sustainability standards, governance, transparency, and accessibility.
WP2 examined consumer decision making and the role of labels and digital tools. Consumer research in ten European countries revealed low awareness and understanding of sustainability labels, alongside demand for clearer and more trustworthy information. An AI enabled mobile application was developed and tested to support sustainable purchasing through label recognition and product information. WP2 delivered consumer driven guidelines for label design, emphasising clarity, relevance, transparency, and digital support.
WP3 identified and documented 17 good practices of social innovation and developed policy recommendations based on interviews with initiative leaders. These recommendations address financial, regulatory, and networking measures to strengthen social innovation in sustainable consumption.
WP4 integrated results from WP1–WP3 to develop and validate actionable label design guidelines for bio based products. Overall, the project delivered evidence based analyses, practical tools, and validated guidelines to improve the credibility, effectiveness, and consumer relevance of sustainability labelling.
