Five European telecommunications operators have joined forces to update and launch a new global labeling scheme for the environmental impact of telecommunications services. This initiative will help consumers identify and compare the most environmentally friendly phones and encourage manufacturers to reduce the environmental footprint of their devices.

Eco Rating is a joint initiative of Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica (operating under the O2 and Movistar brands), Telia Company, and Vodafone. It provides reliable and transparent information about the environmental impact of smartphones and simpler mobile phones across their production, use, transport, and disposal. The scheme aims to raise awareness among operators and customers, increasing demand for more sustainable electronic devices.

A range of new phones from 12 manufacturers will be assessed under the Eco Rating initiative, including Bullitt, Doro, HMD Global (Home of Nokia Phones), Huawei, MobiWire, Motorola/Lenovo, OnePlus, OPPO, Samsung Electronics, TCL/Alcatel, Xiaomi, and ZTE. More companies are expected to join in the future.

Starting in June 2021, operators will introduce the distinctive Eco Rating label at retail points in 24 European countries. Customers can learn more and see how the rating works at www.ecoratingdevices.com.

Each phone will receive an overall score from 1 to 100, reflecting its environmental impact throughout its life cycle. The Eco Rating label also highlights five key sustainability aspects:

• Durability – Device resistance, battery life, warranty period, and components.

• Repairability – Ease of repair, design features, and potential for reuse, updates, and extended lifespan.

• Recyclability – How easily parts can be disassembled, repaired, and recycled.

• Climate impact – Greenhouse gas emissions during the device’s life cycle.

• Resource efficiency – Impact of raw materials used (e.g., gold for electronics) on resource depletion.

The methodology is based on industry expertise and best practices from previous environmental labeling initiatives. It was developed with technical support and oversight from IHOBE (a public agency specializing in economic development, sustainability, and environment), with input from device manufacturers and aligned with EU, ITU-T, ETSI, and ISO standards.

Countries adopting Eco Rating include: Albania, Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

For more information, visit Vodafone Albania’s Eco Rating page.