Nordic Ecolabel turned 20 in 2009 having being established in 1989 by the Nordic Council of Ministers. But there were sceptics. Would this work? Now, 20 years later, there are 65 product groups, a little over 1 800 Nordic licenses, and a recognition rate of 97 percent.

The environmental prestanda of products that annually sell for billions of Swedish crowns is greatly improved. Our focus now turns in 2010 to the environmentally key areas of transportation, the food sector and the housing market. What can a Nordic Ecolabelling accomplish in these areas? During 2009 we completed our nation-wide campaign, "How much of a Swan are you?" with strong involvement from customers, the business sector, politicians and schools. Good publicity reinforced our trademarks with EU Ecolabel recognition growing to 22 percent.

Ecolabelling Sweden represented Sweden in the EU Ecolabelling Board where I was chairperson. New regulations were adopted and our hope is that this will give the EU Ecolabel a good new start. The year was also a year of recession and financial crises. Thankfully this was not reflected in our business with hundreds of new Nordic Ecolabel licences and an ever-increasing consumer interest in environmental issues.

2010 will be a year of unlimited possibilites with new focus areas that have great potential to contribute to a better future. Our personnel, customers, companies and environmental organiations have built the world's strongest Ecolabel.

We are very proud, thank you!

Ragnar Unge, CEO, Miljömärkning Sverige AB