Consumer Affairs Department to Issue Guidelines Against False Environmental Claims in Ads
The Indian government is taking a proactive step to combat deceptive or unsubstantiated environmental claims made by brands in their advertising campaigns. The consumer affairs department is set to release guidelines within the next 3-4 weeks to prevent the practice known as ‘green washing’. With consumers increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of products, it is crucial that claims made by brands are backed by verifiable evidence.
An official from the consumer affairs department emphasized the importance of ensuring that products marketed as environmentally friendly or less harmful to the environment actually meet those claims. Since consumers pay a premium believing that the products they use are environment friendly or cause less damage to the environment, the claims must be backed by verifiable evidence. We will notify the guidelines after incorporating feedback from all stakeholders, the official stated.
The move comes after a recent meeting chaired by Union consumer affairs secretary Rohit Kumar Singh, wherein draft guidelines were formulated. These guidelines propose that any claims made in advertisements comparing one product or service to another must be supported by verifiable data, which must also be disclosed to consumers.
According to the draft norms, any person or company making environmental claims must clarify whether the claims refer to goods, manufacturing, packaging, manner of use, disposal, services, or the process of rendering services. Furthermore, specific claims must be supported by credible certification, reliable scientific evidence, and independent third-party verification in order to maintain authenticity.
The official added, It also provides that no person to whom these norms apply shall engage in green washing, and vague terms such as eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and similar assertions shall not be used without disclosures.
The government’s effort to curb false environmental claims is aimed at protecting consumers from misleading information and ensuring transparency in advertising. By implementing clear guidelines that emphasize verifiable evidence and independent verification, the authorities hope to maintain the authenticity of claims made by brands.
In conclusion, the forthcoming guidelines from the consumer affairs department in India will establish a framework to prevent deceptive environmental claims in advertising. By requiring verifiable evidence, credible certification, and third-party verification, the government aims to protect consumers and promote transparency in the marketplace.
