Green Claims & Digital Product Passports
COM/2023/166 (Proposed)
The proposed Green Claims Directive aims to combat greenwashing by requiring businesses to substantiate environmental claims with scientific evidence. It directly complements DPPs by requiring verifiable data behind sustainability assertions — such a...
Overview
The proposed Green Claims Directive aims to combat greenwashing by requiring businesses to substantiate environmental claims with scientific evidence. It directly complements DPPs by requiring verifiable data behind sustainability assertions — such as "recyclable", "carbon neutral", or "sustainably sourced". DPP data provides the structured evidence base needed for compliant green claims.
Key Requirements
The Green Claims introduces several requirements that directly impact how businesses manage product data and Digital Product Passports.
- Environmental claims must be substantiated with scientific evidence
- Claims verified by accredited third-party verifiers
- Life cycle assessment methodology for environmental claims
- Ban on generic environmental claims without evidence
- Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methods encouraged
- Carbon offset claims must meet additional transparency criteria
- Penalties for greenwashing up to 4% of annual turnover
- Consumer right to access substantiation data
Implementation Timeline
Key dates and milestones for the Green Claims.
-
March 2023
Proposal Published
European Commission publishes the Green Claims Directive proposal.
-
2024-2025
Legislative Process
European Parliament and Council negotiate the final directive text.
-
2026-2027
Expected Adoption
Directive expected to be adopted and enter into force.
-
2028-2029
Member State Transposition
Member states transpose requirements into national legislation.
Affected Sectors
These product sectors are impacted by the Green Claims. Each has specific DPP requirements and deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Green Claims Directive?
A proposed EU directive requiring businesses to substantiate environmental claims with scientific evidence and third-party verification, aiming to eliminate greenwashing.
How does it relate to DPPs?
DPPs provide the structured, verifiable environmental data (carbon footprint, recycled content, recyclability) needed to substantiate green claims. Together they create an evidence-based transparency framework.
Is it in force yet?
No. The Green Claims Directive is still in the EU legislative process (proposed in March 2023). It is expected to be adopted in 2026-2027.
What are the penalties for greenwashing?
The proposal includes penalties of up to 4% of annual turnover for companies making unsubstantiated environmental claims.
Related Articles
Digital Product Passports for Cosmetics: What Brands Need to Know in 2026
Cosmetics are not in scope for the EU's mandatory Digital Product Passport, but the PPWR and green-c...
Business GuidesBuilding Consumer Trust with Digital Product Passports
Learn how digital product passports help brands build deeper consumer trust through verified product...
ComplianceGreenwashing Prevention: How DPPs Combat False Claims
Digital Product Passports provide verifiable, standardised environmental data that makes greenwashin...
Prepare for Green Claims Compliance
Create your Digital Product Passports today with built-in ESPR compliance scoring. Be ready before the January 2027 deadline.