RECP addresses the four sustainability dimensions individually and synergistically:

• Production efficiency: optimization of the productive use of natural resources (materials, energy and water);
• Environmental management: minimization of impacts on the environment through reduction of wastes and emissions;
• Human development: minimization of risks to people and communities and support for their development; and
• Cost savings: cost efficiency through the reduction of the costs of waste, emissions, and environmental and health impacts and gaining financial benefits from these reductions.

Eco-innovation is a new business approach which promotes sustainability throughout the entire life cycle of a product, while also boosting a company’s performance and competitiveness.

It can help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access new and expanding markets, increase productivity, attract new investment into the business, increase profitability across the value chain, and help SMEs stay ahead of regulations and standards – notably those related to the environment.