To achieve this objective, IPP principles first have to be integrated into other policy areas, such as trade policy and public procurement. Public and private demand for products with high social, economic and ecological standards should be encouraged. The following graph illustrates the correlations:

1. IPP in Switzerland

The integrated product policy (IPP) in Switzerland is generally regarded as forming part of sustainable development, and comprises social, economic and ecological aspects. It is thus included in the Federal Council's "Sustainable Development Strategy 2002".

At a federal level, IPP players have joined forces to exchange experiences and further develop IPP.

For further information:

2. IPP in the EU

The integrated product policy (IPP) in the EU was originally developed by an informal group of countries, including Switzerland. The European Commission published a communiqué on IPP in 2003. This formed the basis for various activities, such as the development of IPP and the collection of knowledge on the implementation of the strategy using selected product examples.

In the various European countries (including Switzerland), IPP has been interpreted and implemented in a number of different ways. For further information:

3. IPP worldwide

On an international level, the integrated product policy (IPP) received widespread support at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, where an international programme for the promotion of sustainable consumption and production patterns was launched. The development and implementation of this 10-year framework of programmes was christened the Marrakech Process.

In Switzerland, the Johannesburg Declaration is implemented within the context of IPP. Furthermore, Switzerland participates proactively in the international programme, by heading up a task force for public procurement, for instance.