Since March 27, sustainability communication became a legal matter.

The EU EmpCo Directive bans vague environmental claims and self-invented labels. Companies in food, packaging and cosmetics must act now - or risk fines of up to 4% of annual turnover.

Non-compliant environmental claims overview

What changes from September 2026?

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No more vague claims

Terms like "eco-friendly", "green" or "sustainable" are no longer permitted without specific, verifiable proof.

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No self-invented labels

Sustainability labels must be based on independent certification systems and verified by third parties.

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Offsetting alone is not enough

Climate neutrality claims based solely on offsetting measures are explicitly prohibited from June 2026.

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Significant sanctions

Member states set the penalties. Based on experience, EU consumer protection directives typically carry fines of up to 4% of annual turnover.

Your solution: EmpCo-compliant label

Flustix Certification Labels
download Download EmpCo Whitepaper

Recognized, third-party verified, and legally safe.

Particularly affected:
Three industries in focus

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Food industry

Organic labels, regional origin claims, and packaging promises must be substantiated from 2026 to avoid heavy litigation.

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Packaging industry

Claims like "Recyclable" or "plastic-free" now require rigorous independent certification and technical documentation.

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Cosmetics industry

"Natural" and "vegan" differentiators are under scrutiny. EmpCo puts an end to self-declaration in beauty marketing.

Questions about EmpCo? Our expert answers instantly.

Our AI-powered EmpCo advisor knows the directive in detail. Ask your questions - around the clock, free of charge.

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EmpCo Guru AI
Hello! I'm your EmpCo compliance assistant. How can I help you navigate the new EU directives today?
Is our "100% Recyclable" claim on PET bottles still allowed under EmpCo?
Under Art. 2, such claims must be backed by a certified third-party scheme. flustix certifications are fully compliant. Would you like to check your specific label?

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is the EmpCo Directive? expand_more
The EmpCo Directive (EU 2024/825) - fully titled "Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition" - extends existing unfair commercial practices rules with clear constraints for sustainability claims. Member states had to transpose it by March 27, 2026, and the new rules apply from September 27, 2026.
Does EmpCo also affect B2B companies? expand_more
While primarily aimed at B2C, many member states apply it to B2B. Germany and Italy already treat B2B sustainability claims with similar rigor. Suppliers to B2C brands must also prepare to provide verifiable proof to their clients.
What happens if my company fails to meet requirements? expand_more
Sanctions include fines up to 4% of annual turnover, injunctions from competitors/NGOs, and mandatory withdrawal of products from the EU market, alongside severe reputational damage.
How does flustix certification help? expand_more
flustix provides independent, third-party verification that your sustainability claims are based on recognized systems. This directly fulfills EmpCo's requirement for verified sustainability labels.

Know in 30 seconds whether you need to act.

The compliance check determines whether your company is affected by the EmpCo Directive. Get a clear risk assessment immediately.

verified Independent, recognized, EmpCo-compliant.

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