Clarification on the meaning of 'verification' under ETV and differences from certification

Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) is a new tool enabling the verification of the performance claims put forward by developers of innovative environmental technologies. The EU-ETV programme, launched in 2011 by DG-ENV, is supported by Technical Working Groups (TWGs), one for each technology area active under the Pilot programme. These TWGs are chaired by the JRC and composed by Commission Invited Experts and by Experts representing the Verification Bodies with the overall aim to harmonise and exchange good practices. Technology performance verification is relatively a new concept and the distinction between verification and certification can be confusing for technology proposers, end users and accreditation bodies. The present reference document summarises the key differences and should provide clarification to all parties concerned with ETV. This document has been adopted on the 07th of June 2016 by the TWGs. It has been produced by the EU ETV Technical Working Groups, chaired by the JRC, under the auspices of DG Environment. This document is part of deliverable 2.1.5 under the Administrative Arrangement 070307/2011/630755/F4 between DG ENV and JRC (ref JRC No. 32937), "Scientific and technical support for the implementation of the EU Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) pilot programme". (second amendment).