EU Directive 2024/825 · EmpCo

The anti-greenwashing guide for events

A practical guide, not legal advice. For a binding view on your own wording, consult a qualified lawyer.

For event organisers, venues, caterers and suppliers
Applies since27 September 2026

Since 27 September 2026, vague green claims are banned unless you say exactly what you mean on the same page, or can show recognised excellent environmental performance, such as an EU Ecolabel. "Sustainable event", "eco-friendly catering", "climate-neutral conference" and your own green event badge all become high-risk wording. In the Netherlands the ACM enforces. It can fine up to €900,000 per infringement or, for blacklisted practices, up to 10% of annual turnover where that is higher.

What's inside

  • Which side of the line you are on — direct scope, or your client's evidence chain
  • The six practices that catch events, each cited to its provision in the Directive
  • A say-this / don't-say-this table written for events, catering and suppliers
  • Four questions to put to every supplier before you repeat their claim

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Daniela Burba, ISO 20121:2024 auditor (TÜV SÜD)