Technological watch

In recent years, terms such as “climate-neutral” and “climate-positive” for green products or self-created labels, that suggest the environmental friendliness of a product have become increasing common in the European market, but manufacturers and retailers often fail to scientifically prove their green claims.

The consequences are a high degree of non-transparency that leaves consumers insecure, while certified environmental products and labels lose their credibility. To end these practises and to install full market transparency the EU has drafted a proposal for the so-called Green Claims Directive. According to the Commission’s proposal, the Green Claims Directive will cover voluntary claims that state or imply a positive environmental impact and that are not regulated elsewhere. The rules for substantiating claims include the fact that a claim must be relevant to the product or company and must be based on established scientific evidence.

In addition, the environmental impacts that are subject of the claim must be proven from a life cycle perspective. Further, the proposed directive also includes rules for communication, labelling schemes and the requirements for certification bodies.

The upcoming nova Session will provide a deep dive into the expected implications of the planned Green Claims Directive. What is to expect? How can companies prepare best? Lara Dammer, head of the economy and policy department, Matthias Stratmann, head of the sustainability department and Lucaino Proto Cassina, Specialist in Bioeconomy and Circular Economy Policy from nova-Institute will share their insights on the upcoming EU proposal.

Join the webinar. For registration please click here.