Two recognized approaches, but very different evaluation frameworks

The EcoGarden label recognizes green space managers committed to ecological management practices. It promotes virtuous practices and environmental awareness. However, it only applies to the operational phase, on sites that have already been developed, without measuring actual ecological performance. The Effinature HVE (High Ecological Value) certification, awarded by IRICE and accredited to ISO/IEC 17065, goes further: it assesses the ecological functionality and resilience of the site, based on scientific criteria and independent audits. These two approaches are compatible, but not equivalent.

1. The EcoGarden label: promoting existing ecological management

Created in 2012 at the initiative of Plante & Cité and the Ministry of Ecological Transition, the ÉcoJardin label is aimed at green space managers:

• communities,
• social housing providers,
• landscaping companies,
• managers of parks, campuses, gardens or cemeteries.

Its objective is to recognize sites managed according to the principles of urban ecology and everyday biodiversity. The framework is structured around seven themes:

1. Site knowledge
2. Soil and fertilization,
3. Water management,
4. Fauna and flora,
5. Materials and equipment,
6. Social and living environment,
7. Strategy and communication.

The label is based on a management audit (documentation, interviews, site visit). It is awarded for three years and recognizes the quality of ecological management practices, not a measured ecological performance.

2. A virtuous approach, but not a certified one

The EcoGarden label is a voluntary recognition tool, not a certification as defined by the Consumer Code. It does not qualify a product or service according to an accredited standard. Its value lies in education and collective progress. The assessment is carried out by approved auditors, but without supervision from an accredited certification body, nor any scientific measurement of the results. The label therefore recognizes good management practices, without guaranteeing the actual ecological performance of the site.

3. Effinature HVE: the scientific and accredited certification of green spaces

Launched in 2025, the HVE (High Ecological Value) version of the Effinature standard fills this methodological gap. It applies to the ecological management of green spaces and vegetated heritage sites, whether public or private. Unlike ÉcoJardin, Effinature HVE is an ISO/IEC 17065 accredited certification, meaning it is verified by an independent third party under the supervision of COFRAC.

The framework includes six fundamental requirements:

• Preservation of living soil 
• Development of plant heritage, 
• Support for local wildlife, 
• Reduction of the project's impacts, 
• User well-being,
• Skills development.

Each site is subject to a mandatory on-site audit, followed by annual monitoring. The assessment results in an ecological compliance certificate, issued by IRICE for two years, with a follow-up audit.

4. Two logics of recognition: practices vs. performance

Effinature HVE adopts the philosophy of ÉcoJardin—responsible management and the promotion of living organisms—but transposes it into a scientific and regulatory framework. It does not rely solely on the goodwill of managers, but requires proof of tangible ecological results.

5. The question of legal status and guarantees for users

While the ÉcoJardin label distinguishes approaches, Effinature HVE qualifies performance. This distinction is essential with regard to the Consumer Code: as soon as a site is presented as “high-performing” or “ecological,” validation must be ensured by an accredited third-party certification. Effinature HVE therefore offers legal and scientific certainty to local authorities, landlords, and operators. The certificate is not merely symbolic: it establishes the responsibility of the certifier, the auditor, and the manager.

6. In conclusion

The EcoJardin label and the Effinature HVE certification are part of the same dynamic: improving the ecological management of green spaces. But their scopes differ.

• ÉcoJardin supports and promotes responsible practices.
• Effinature HVE certifies the actual and measured ecological performance of the site.

The two approaches are complementary: ÉcoJardin initiates the transition, Effinature HVE guarantees its compliance and sustainability.

This continuity – from management label to accredited certification – now structures the ecological governance of territories.