Ekoplaza introduces ‘Ekoscope’ impact score

Ekoplaza is introducing a new decision-making tool for consumers. With the so-called Ekoscope, the organic supermarket chain makes product characteristics visible in terms of health, sustainability, and social impact. The score appears on electronic shelf labels and via ekoplaza.nl. Consumers can also scan products with their phones to see how the score is built up.

Twelve factors determine the score

The Ekoscope assesses products based on twelve factors. These are divided into three themes: for you, for each other, and for the planet. Products receive points for social certifications, recyclable packaging, and alignment with the Dutch dietary guidelines known as the Disc of Five. Based on this, products receive a total score ranging from one to twelve. According to Ekoplaza, the system helps consumers make more informed choices and better understand differences between products.

Currently, around 70 percent of the assortment has been assessed using this method. That amounts to more than 5,000 products. Bread, vegetables, fruit, and locally sourced products have not yet been included. Non-food products fall outside the system.

Existing certifications as the foundation

The Ekoscope uses existing independent methods and certifications. For health-related criteria, Ekoplaza looks at the NOVA classification and the Disc of Five, among others. Within the ‘for each other’ category, certifications such as Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance are taken into account. Production by Dutch companies or family-owned businesses also contributes points.

In the ‘for the planet’ category, Ekoplaza looks at organic and plant-based products, among other things. Products originating from fully organic companies, products containing at least 80 percent Dutch ingredients, and certifications such as EKO, Demeter, and MSC also count toward the score.

Packaging also plays a role. Products receive points when packaging is recyclable or part of a deposit return system.

CO₂ emissions visible on website

The CO₂ emissions of products are also being made visible on the Ekoplaza website. For this, the retailer uses analyses from Banana Bread AI.

Erik Does, CEO of Ekoplaza: “After an intensive preparation period together with our suppliers, I am extremely proud that we are introducing the Ekoscope today. At Ekoplaza, every product already meets our organic standards, but we want to give consumers the opportunity to make even more conscious choices.”

Ekoplaza.nl