Empowering consumers for a successful green transition

 

EMPOWERING CONSUMERS FOR A SUCCESSFUL GREEN TRANSITION – HOW CAN IMPROVED INFORMATION AND PROTECTION AGAINST UNFAIR PRACTICES BEST BE ACHIEVED?

In 2022, the European Commission published a proposal for amendments to the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive and the Consumer Rights Directive. The proposal aims to contribute to a circular, clean and green EU economy by enabling consumers to take informed decisions and contribute to more sustainable consumption. It also targets unfair commercial practices that mislead consumers, aiming to achieve a better and more consistent application of EU consumer rules.

The proposal follows the European Green Deal and is seen by policymakers as fundamental for creating a sustainable product policy framework that can empower consumers.

However, some industry stakeholders claim that the proposal is not clear enough and does not create a level playing field for the industry. They are recommending the ban of vague or non-specific environmental claims such as “environmentally safe”, “green”, “nature’s friend”, which they argue may be associated with “greenwashing”. (...)