Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The ECO Mark is a voluntary labeling scheme introduced by the Government of India in 1991 and administered by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
It is awarded to consumer products that meet specific environmental criteria along with the quality standards set by the BIS.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The primary objectives of the ECO Mark scheme are to encourage eco-friendly manufacturing and promote sustainable consumption.
According to the official BIS guidelines, the ECO Mark is granted to products that meet quality requirements (ISI standards) and show a reduced environmental impact during manufacture, use, and disposal.
A major goal of placing the ECO Mark logo (a clay pot or 'Gharha') on packaging is to help consumers make informed choices.
By providing clear information about a product's environmental impact, the label helps consumers select environmentally responsible products, encouraging manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly processes.
While recyclability and energy efficiency (option C) are criteria used to evaluate products, the primary consumer-facing purpose of the label is to guide informed purchasing decisions.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The ECO Mark helps consumers make informed purchasing choices, corresponding to option (B).