New Green Claims Code - helping you see the wood for the trees

The Code impacts businesses of all sizes and in all sectors. The CMA will use existing consumer protection laws to bring enforcement action against companies that fail to follow the rules, so it’s vital that you familiarise yourself with the new Code and roll out changes where necessary.

How it impacts your business, and why the urgency?

The CMA found that around 40% of green claims made online could be misleading consumers. The CMA has given UK businesses until the end of the year to review their online and offline claims (including on websites, packaging, in store and so on), and make sure they are in line with the new code. Companies that have been making ambiguous environmental claims over recent years may need to turn over a new leaf.

The CMA will start actively enforcing the rules in the New Year. It will start by targeting sectors where consumers appear most concerned, including

• textiles and fashion

• travel and transport

• fast-moving consumer goods (including food and drink, beauty and cleaning products)

but their enforcement activity will not be limited to those sectors.

So, now is the time to ensure your green claims are whiter than white.

If the CMA fines you for “green washing”, or even if the ASA only upholds a complaint, not only will that damage your reputation with your customers, but it might will also put you at a competitive disadvantage in the market for talent.

In the meantime, you can read more about the new Green Claims Code here.