The EcoBeautyScore Consortium created a harmonized, voluntary product scoring system. This helps consumers easily compare the environmental impact of cosmetic products. The scores are based on each product's environmental footprint and are published voluntarily. Each score is verified annually by an independent auditor to ensure transparency and accuracy.
The goal of the consortium scoring is simple: create a harmonized product scoring or rating system that enables consumers to make sustainable purchasing decisions within specific product segments.
The score will be displayed on product packaging and digital platforms, like websites, using tools such as QR codes.
This requires:
- Consumer-friendly scores
A scoring methodology that transforms the results of footprint assessments (e.g., the normalized and weighted aggregated footprint single value) into a product score that is meaningful to consumers.
- Consistent segment definition
A segment definition based on common segmentation principles appl;ied consistently across all segments.
- Standardized layout by region
The scoring layout is harmonized by product segment and sales region, making it easy to interpret no matter where the product is sold.
How the scoring works
- Performance classes :
The score ranges from A to E, where A represents the best environmental performance, and E the least. - Footprint calculation :
The score is based solely on the product's aggregated footprint value (normalized and weighted). - Region-specific scales :
The scoring scales are set per product segment per region. The Consortium’s aim is to compare products used for the same purpose. For example, the hair wash segment refers to products for which the1st benefit is to wash hair. - Multiple scores for one product :
The scoring methodology is consistent across all segments and regions, though the scale values may differ. A product can have separate scores for each region, and users should have access to all the scores for their products.
Example Scoring System
To clarify how the scoring works, here’s an example with dummy data:
If, within a segment and region, performance scales are defined as the following:
- A = [0:1]
- B = ]1:3]
- C = ]3:5]
- D = ]5:7]
- E = [7, +infinity[
Now, let’s apply this to three products:
- Product A has an aggregated footprint value of 3.4. Its score is C.
- Product B has an aggregated footprint value of 50. Its score is E.
- Product C has an aggregated footprint value of 1. Its score is A.