SME Certification & Eco-Labelling

This lesson equips circular economy SMEs with the knowledge needed to understand, obtain and leverage product certification and eco-labelling. Participants will explore the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) certification process and requirements relevant to circular economy products, as well as international schemes such as the EU Ecolabel that may be relevant to businesses targeting export markets.

The lesson provides practical guidance on navigating certification, including documentation, costs, timelines and ongoing compliance requirements. Participants will also learn how certification can support market positioning by strengthening customer trust, accessing new buyers and communicating product quality and environmental credentials. Finally, they will conduct a basic cost-benefit analysis to assess how certification could contribute to their SME’s revenue trajectory.

By the end of the lesson, participants will be able to:

• Understand ZABS certification processes and requirements relevant to circular economy products.
• Identify the EU Ecolabel and other international eco-labelling schemes relevant to Zambian exporters.
• Navigate the certification process, including documentation, costs, timelines and maintenance.
• Understand how certification can support pricing, market access, customer confidence and brand value.
• Conduct a basic cost-benefit analysis of certification and its potential impact on business revenue.