Last edited 16 Mar 2022

Green Claims Code

GreenClaimsCode.jpg

Contents

[edit] Introduction

In September 2021, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) published the Green Claims Code to help businesses understand how to communicate their green credentials while reducing the risk of misleading shoppers.

The key piece of relevant consumer protection legislation for developing this guidance was the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs). The CPRs contain a general prohibition against unfair commercial practices and specific prohibitions against misleading actions and misleading omissions.

[edit] Areas of guidance

The Green Claims Code focuses on principles based on existing consumer law found in the CPRs. Firms making green claims “must not omit or hide important information” and “must consider the full life cycle of the product”. Businesses have until January 2022 to make sure their environmental claims comply.

Following the initial compliance adjustment period, the CMA will carry out a full review of misleading green claims, both on and offline (e.g. claims made in store or on labelling). The CMA will prioritise which sectors to review, based on its concerns about people being misled by environmental claims. This could include industries where consumers appear most susceptible. However, any sector where the CMA finds significant concerns could become a priority.

[edit] Follow up actions

The Green Claims Code has been published following consultations with businesses and consumer groups. Businesses should check their green claims against the Code and seek legal advice if they are unsure whether their claims comply with the law. More information can be found on the misleading environmental claims case page.

Minister of State for Energy and Clean Growth, Greg Hands, said, “Government is also reviewing green energy tariffs to ensure consumers can be confident they are choosing companies that make a conscious choice to invest in renewable energy.”

Ref https://www.gov.uk/government/news/greenwashing-cma-puts-businesses-on-notice

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