According to the EU Commission, the online retailer Zalando has committed to removing misleading sustainability labels and symbols from its website.
From April 15, 2024, symbols such as leaves or trees will no longer appear next to the products on offer. The Brussels authorities announced this on Thursday. The Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC), coordinated by the European Commission, targeted Zalando in 2022.
Clear information instead of labels
Instead of the previous labels, the online retailer wants to provide clear information about the specific product in the future, for example about the percentage of recycled materials used.
In addition, the previous “sustainability page” should be revised by introducing two new websites: one with further information about the product standards and one with information about Zalando’s sustainability-related approaches and strategies.
Under EU law, companies must provide consumers with truthful information and not mislead them in order to influence their decisions.
Zalando should also submit a report documenting the implementation of its obligations. A network of consumer advocates – coordinated by the European Commission – will then assess this. If it finds deficiencies, it can impose fines.
At Zalando, products have previously been awarded certain symbols if they met one of the company’s sustainability criteria, as the group explains on its website. To date, these have included symbols for ecological or innovative materials, natural ingredients or items without animal testing. (dpa)