epeaswitzerland assessing Migros products for circular economy credentials

Migros, Switzerland’s largest retailer, is expanding its commitment to the circular economy and integrating its supplier network in these efforts. As such, the Near Non-Food range comprising, for example, textiles and household items, is being examined accordingly. These products are evaluated by a screening from epeaswitzerland, the accredited assessor for the Cradle to Cradle Certified certification based in Bäch in the canton of Schwyz. The term “Cradle to Cradle” reflects a principle related to the circular economy concept.

On this basis, epeaswitzerland is implementing the M-Check for Migros with regard to two separate dimensions: recyclable ingredients and environmentally friendly ingredients. In both cases, epeaswitzerland awards a star rating for the products examined. The top rating of five stars means that the product is fully compliant with the circular economy with regard to the recyclable ingredients and that the environmentally friendly ingredients have no negative impact on the environment. One-star products, i.e., those made from PVC, still comply with the legal regulations. However, this is not recyclable. Migros is working on ways to offer these items on the basis of other materials in the future, although in some cases this has not yet been possible.

The Migros M-Check screening from epeaswitzerland is the first step at Migros as the company seeks to ramp up its commitment to the circular economy. After implementation, the 5-star rating can be used by customers to find out about product suitability in terms of circular economy credentials. A second step will see Migros additionally include its supplier network on the basis of the 5-star rating. Migros will not only recommend that suppliers implement appropriate measures towards the creation of a circular economy but to apply for a Cradle to Cradle Certified certification. Migros will also offer active support for suppliers in their efforts to this end. ce/jh