EmpCo 2026: The new reality for sustainability claims
Are you ready for the new reality of sustainability claims?
For years, terms like “Sustainable”, “Green” and “Eco-friendly” have been widely used across product packaging, websites and marketing campaigns.
From September 2026, using these claims in the EU will become much more challenging.
Not because sustainability communication is being banned, but because companies will increasingly be expected to prove what they say.
The question is changing.
Yesterday: “What sustainability story do we want to tell?”
Tomorrow: “Can we demonstrate it with evidence?”
What is EmpCo?
EmpCo is the commonly used name for the EU’s Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive.
The Directive is designed to give consumers clearer and more reliable information when making purchasing decisions and to strengthen protection against practices such as greenwashing.
Among other changes, it introduces new rules around environmental claims and sustainability labels, meaning businesses will need to pay closer attention to how sustainability information is communicated to consumers.
The new rules will apply from 27 September 2026.
Most exposed industries
While the EmpCo Directive is cross-sectoral, industries that heavily market sustainability as a competitive advantage are expected to face particular attention, including:
- Fashion & Textiles
- Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Consumer Goods & Food
- Packaging & Paper
- Electronics & Appliances
- Energy
How Control Union can help
Control Union supports companies in preparing for EmpCo through verification and assurance, readiness assessments, traceability services, training and certification.
Our services can help strengthen the evidence behind sustainability claims, improve supply chain transparency and support compliance readiness.
How can we help you?
