Kudakwashe Ndhlukula

Establishing an Eco-label for Namibia: Creating a National Competitive Advantage Through Environmental Leadership Kudakwashe Ndhlukula

Many countries across the world, except in Africa, have established national eco-labels since the 1990s. Coincidentally, most of these countries enjoy significant economic development. The establishment of a national eco-label requires the involvement of different stakeholders such as government, consumers, producers, academia and civic society. Credibility of the eco-label is brought about by establishment of strict but achievable standards which are certified by an independent body. The assessment of environmental attributes of the product/service category must be based on Life Cycle Assessment or part of it for objectivity. Namibia must thus seriously consider adopting a national eco-label so as to easily access export markets and become and remain competitive. The National Eco-label Board/Council composed of wide stakeholders is proposed to drive the initiative. The Ministry of Trade and Industry and that of Environment and Tourism must play an active role to provide administrative, financial and moral support to the initiative.