Austria-based cellulosic fiber manufacturer Lenzing Fibers has been awarded the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. The Nordic Ecolabel — introduced by the Nordic Council of Ministers, headquartered in Sweden — certification system identifies products that have been produced in an environmentally friendly manner. Lenzing is the first fiber producer globally to be certified, receiving certification for its Grimsby, England; Heiligenkreuz, Austria; and Lenzing, Austria, production facilities. The company also plans to expand the certification to include its Tencel^® production site in Mobile, Ala.

Under the Swan certification program, products are evaluated according to extensive criteria including chemical usage; emission values; water consumption; land utilization and energy use; product disposal; and product quality and functionality.

Lenzing Viscose^® and Tencel fibers are derived from sustainable raw material and wood, and are produced in a way that optimizes resource usage. Products composed of 100-percent Lenzing Viscose or Tencel fibers are fully biodegradable.