Two classes of biolubricants

Within the current market supply of biolubricant products, two classes of eco-friendliness can be distinguished.
The difference between the two classes is determined by the maximum amount of objectionable additives a product may contain, and the amount of data on the lubricant’s components that is required.

Class II sets core or basic requirements concerning the environmental-friendliness of lubricants. These may be considered as the minimum requirements that lubricants should meet. From an ecological point of view, Class I sets higher, comprehensive requirements. These could be applied as awarding criteria for sustainable purchasing.

Instead of formulating separate criteria, the classification is in keeping with the current criteria of ecolabels. The products will demonstrably have to meet the requirements, as formulated by the ecolabel, for example via a label or a report by an independent institute.

In the table below, the basic requirements (Class II) and the awarding criteria (Class I) are provided. These differ per type of lubricant (hydraulic fluids and greases, concrete mould release agents and other total loss lubricants).

Table: two classes of biolubricants

By the end of 2010 there were no Nordic Swan (4.4) or SS155470 Class A products. The aim is to promote the availability of products that (can) meet the standards of the European Ecolabel.

Annex: Placing sustainability requirements for purchasing biolubricants (PDF).