The Bundestag has passed a bill that is intended to prevent so-called greenwashing more effectively. Specifically, this involves harsher consequences for misleading statements about supposedly positive properties of a product in terms of sustainability, environmental or climate protection. Anyone who advertises with terms such as “environmentally friendly” or “climate-neutral” on packaging, in advertisements, advertising brochures or on the Internet must be able to substantiate this claim in the future – otherwise they may face a warning or even compensation.
No fantasy seals
In addition, according to the new regulations, sustainability seals may only be used if they are based on a certification system or have been set by government authorities.
According to Bundestag Vice President Omid Nouripour (Greens), the CDU/CSU, SPD and Green groups voted for the draft, which is intended to implement a European Union directive. The AfD and Left Party MPs present spoke out against it.
Does packaging that has already been produced end up in the trash?
The new rules should apply from September 27, 2026. The Federal Council had proposed a longer sales period for products and packaging that have already been manufactured. However, in its recommendation for a resolution, the responsible committee of the Bundestag refers to the European Union’s time constraints and instead suggests that the responsible Federal Minister of Justice, Stefanie Hubig (SPD), should advocate for an extended deadline at EU level.
“Packaging should not have to be destroyed,” said SPD MP Nadine Heselhaus. Both the Federal Council and the National Regulatory Control Council criticized the bureaucratic effort associated with the implementation of the EU directive.