Disclaimer: This tool provides a risk indicator only — not legal advice. For definitive compliance guidance, consult a qualified legal professional specializing in EU consumer or environmental law.
🔍 Scan Your Marketing Claims
Enter a product page URL or paste your copy directly. We'll flag risky language against the EU 2026 Directive and suggest compliant alternatives.
📚 Key Greenwashing Regulations (2024–2026)
The regulatory landscape has changed dramatically. Here's what you need to know.
| Regulation | Jurisdiction | In Force | Max Penalty | Key Rule |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EU Green Claims Directive | European Union | 2026 (proposed) | 4% of annual turnover | All environmental claims must be substantiated with LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) before being made |
| EU Empowering Consumers Directive | European Union | 2024 (transposed) | 4% of annual turnover | Bans vague claims like "eco-friendly," "green," "sustainable" without proof. Bans carbon offset labels |
| FTC Green Guides (16 CFR Part 260) | United States | Active (update expected 2024) | $50,000+ per violation | Claims must be "truthful, not misleading, and substantiated." Carbon neutral claims face heavy scrutiny |
| UK ASA / CMA Green Claims Code | United Kingdom | Active | Ad bans + legal action | Claims must be accurate, clear, not omit material information, and be substantiated |
| SEC Climate Disclosure Rule | United States (public cos.) | 2025 | SEC enforcement | Public companies must disclose climate-related risks and emissions data in filings |
| Australia ACCC Greenwashing | Australia | Active | AUD $50M+ | ACCC has issued infringement notices for "carbon neutral" and "net zero" claims without substantiation |
💡 What Changes Under the EU Green Claims Directive
Now BANNED (without LCA proof): "eco-friendly", "green", "sustainable", "planet-friendly", "nature-inspired", "responsible"
Carbon offset labels banned: "carbon neutral via offsets" claims are prohibited. You must reduce actual emissions.
High scrutiny: "carbon neutral", "net zero", "climate positive", "100% natural", "biodegradable"
Generally safer (with evidence): Specific, measurable claims with certified data, e.g. "Made with 30% recycled content (verified by SGS)"
📄 Banned & High-Risk Terms Glossary
Terms that regularly trigger regulatory action. Showing risk level and what evidence is needed to use each term legally.