Title: Proposal of a conceptual sustainability labelling scheme for environmentally sensitive areas with anthropogenic activities

Authors: Ilias Kakanis; George Gaidajis

Addresses: Laboratory of Environmental Management and Industrial Ecology, Department of Production Engineering and Management, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece ' Laboratory of Environmental Management and Industrial Ecology, Department of Production Engineering and Management, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece

Abstract: Eco-label schemes seek to encourage a transition towards sustainable and more environmentally friendly consumption patterns, while covering the growing environmental concerns of the consumers. Those schemes could serve as basis to urge organisations and management bodies to increase the environmental performance of their facilities, products and services. In this paper, we examined the potential development and implementation of an environmental labelling scheme, designed for protected areas as well as for the anthropogenic activities that may occur within their boundaries. The proposed labelling scheme operates in two certification levels with their own subcategories. Moreover, a primary research regarding consumer and business behaviour towards eco-labelling scheme was conducted, including consumer and organisations residing within the boundaries of a National Park in Northeastern Greece. The results of this research showcase that consumers have a positive stance towards environmental labelling schemes, however from a business perspective there is still the need for further involvement.

Keywords: sustainability; eco-label; protected areas.

DOI: 10.1504/PIE.2020.113433

Progress in Industrial Ecology, An International Journal, 2020 Vol.14 No.3/4, pp.264 - 283

Received: 17 Aug 2020
Accepted: 05 Nov 2020
Published online: 04 Mar 2021 *

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