Publications and Resources

This comparative study investigates consumer perceptions of energy efficiency labeling (EEE) in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. Through surveys conducted with over 3,400 participants who recently purchased household appliances, the study assesses the influence of EEE on purchasing decisions, comprehension of label content, and information-seeking behavior. Results reveal varying priorities in appliance selection across countries—such as brand in Brazil, product features in Argentina, and energy consumption in Uruguay—and highlight the significant role of sales personnel and internet sources in disseminating energy efficiency information. Despite generally high awareness of the EEE, gaps remain in consumer understanding and use, underscoring the need for enhanced public communication and education strategies to strengthen energy-conscious consumption in the MERCOSUR region.

This guide provides a practical framework for developing and submitting proposals to establish international or regional technical standards for products, with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. Designed to support national standards bodies, regulators, producers, and other stakeholders, the document outlines methodologies for product characterization, market analysis, and sustainability assessment. It emphasizes the importance of biodiversity conservation and the inclusion of traditional knowledge in standardization efforts. By guiding countries through the processes required by international organizations like ISO and Codex Alimentarius, the guide seeks to enhance the visibility, competitiveness, and sustainable trade of native species products on the global stage. It also aims to strengthen quality infrastructure services that support biodiversity protection, climate resilience, and economic development.

The document highlights the project which seeks synergy effects with other regional and bilateral PTB projects. The objective is to strengthen the Quality Infrastructure institutions to support free, fair, and safe trade in the SADC region which directly contributes to implementing the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The project promotes employment and economic growth (goal 8) and encourages regional and international trade as well as regional value creation (goals 17.6 and 17.10-12). It also develops capacities and capabilities at the regional and national levels.

The document shows the importance of a functioning quality infrastructure for climate and environmental protection. Standardised, reliable and comparable environmental data is required for an inventory and ongoing monitoring of the state of the environment and climate. To guarantee this, quality assurance mechanisms must be established and applied. Climate change affects the entire world, but developing countries are particularly hard hit. In its international cooperation, PTB is therefore focussing primarily on building up expertise in its partner institutions.

This report presents the findings of a rapid assessment of Côte d’Ivoire’s national quality infrastructure (QI), conducted by the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in partnership with local and international experts. Utilizing the Rapid Diagnostic Tool (RDT), the evaluation covered nine key domains of QI—including standardization, accreditation, metrology, testing, certification, and technical regulation—along four pillars: legal and institutional framework, administration and infrastructure, service delivery, and external recognition. The assessment highlights the country's significant progress in establishing a foundational QI system and identifies critical gaps in autonomy, coordination, and technical capacity. Despite a robust legislative framework and operational institutions, challenges persist in aligning quality infrastructure with industrial policy, securing sustainable funding, and achieving full international recognition. The report concludes with targeted recommendations aimed at strengthening the effectiveness and global competitiveness of Côte d’Ivoire’s QI, thereby supporting its economic growth and integration into international markets.