EU Commission aims to tackle greenwashing in new consumer agenda

(EurActiv, 16 Nov 2020) Avoiding greenwashing and providing customers with more information about the sustainability of the products they buy is a key part of the Commission’s new consumer agenda, launched on Friday (13 November).

The agenda will support the Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, which aims to halve municipal waste by 2030, by enabling consumers to more easily spend money on green products.

The agenda lays out a vision for consumer policy until 2025 and tackles five areas, including environmental aspects and digitalisation, to help consumers take an active role in the transition to a sustainable economy.

A survey conducted across 11 countries earlier this year found that EU consumers are willing to change eating habits for instance, but are stopped by lacking information, high prices and the limited availability of sustainable food.

“European consumers are at the core of a global change. Their actions can make a significant difference. Consumers need to be empowered to make sustainable choices and be reassured that their rights will be protected in all circumstances,” said Didier Reynders, the EU’s justice commissioner.

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EurActiv, 16 Nov 2020: EU Commission aims to tackle greenwashing in new consumer agenda