With their publication in the EU Official Journal on 6 March 2024 and taking effect on 27 March 2024, the requirements are already clearly defined. For companies, this means that environmental claims will be in greater focus in the future and must be verifiable.
What is changing
The EMPCO Directive significantly tightens the criteria. Among other things, the following applies:
These requirements lead to uncertainties among many companies, in particular when it comes to the question of which environmental performance certificates will be admissible in the future.
Two common misconceptions — briefly explained
1. EmpCo does NOT only require Type 1 Ecolabels
A common misconception is the assumption that only Type 1 ecolabels (ISO 14024) are allowed under EmpCo. That is wrong: The Directive requires independent, transparent and verifiable seals, not a mandatory ISO category.
2. Why there is additional confusion in Germany
Germany is implementing EmpCo through the Unfair Competition Act (UWG). In some wording, this national structure appears stricter than the EU Directive itself and therefore often leads to uncertainties with regard to seals, claims and verification requirements.
Why Cradle to Cradle Certified® is now gaining in importance
EmpCo strengthens the relevance of independent, science-based and verifiable sustainability evidence.
Cradle to Cradle Certified® meets exactly these requirements:
Companies that rely on C2C Certified® can therefore continue to make credible and legally compliant sustainability statements even after EmpCo and gain a clear competitive advantage.
How EPEA supports
As an assessment body of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute, we advise companies on how to make their products future-proof, compliant and transparent. From material optimization to data collection to full C2C certification, we support the entire process and help you deal safely with the new EMPCO requirements.