Green Globe Certification & the EU Empowering Consumers Directive (EmpCo) FAQs
What is the EmpCo Directive?
The EU Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (EmpCo) strengthens consumer protection by tackling misleading environmental claims and unverified sustainability labels. From 27 September 2026, only sustainability labels based on credible, independently verified certification schemes or public authorities may be used in consumer‑facing communications in the EU.
Does EmpCo apply to Green Globe Certification?
Yes. EmpCo applies to how sustainability labels are used in consumer‑facing contexts such as websites, marketing materials and promotional communications targeting EU consumers. Green Globe supports EmpCo, as the Directive reflects the same principles that have underpinned our certification program since its inception: transparency, evidence and independent verification.
Is Green Globe compliant with EmpCo requirements?
Yes. Green Globe Certification meets the key requirements set out in EmpCo for the use of sustainability labels. Our program is based on a formal certification scheme, with publicly available criteria and mandatory third‑party audits, clearly distinguishing Green Globe from self‑created or marketing‑led labels that EmpCo prohibits.
What makes Green Globe a credible certification scheme?
Green Globe operates under a structured, science‑based certification system developed over more than 30 years, originating from the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit and Agenda 21. The Green Globe Standard includes 44 criteria, supported by 380+ compliance indicators, covering sustainable management, social and economic impact, cultural heritage, and environmental performance. Certification is granted only following independent verification.
How does Green Globe ensure independent verification?
All Green Globe certifications are verified through independent third‑party on‑site audits. Green Globe works with a global network of 120+ trained auditors operating across more than 80 countries. Auditors assess documented evidence, inspect operations on‑site, and verify performance against the Green Globe Standard. There is no self‑assessment or self‑declaration.
Are Green Globes standards transparent and publicly available?
Yes. Transparency is a core requirement of EmpCo and a core principle of Green Globe. The structure of the Green Globe Standard, including its criteria and certification process, is publicly documented. This enables consumers, businesses and partners to clearly understand what the Green Globe label represents.
How does Green Globe prevent greenwashing?
Green Globe certification requires evidence‑based performance, not vague claims. Sustainability achievements must be documented, measured and verified by independent auditors. Certification is maintained through ongoing compliance and periodic review, and the Green Globe label may only be used while certification remains valid.
Does Green Globe rely on carbon offsetting claims?
No. Green Globe certification focuses on actual operational performance across management, environmental, social and cultural criteria. While members may pursue climate initiatives, certification is not based on offsetting alone. This aligns with EmpCo’s prohibition on claims that rely solely on carbon offsets.
What happens if a member no longer meets the Standard?
If a member does not maintain compliance, Green Globe applies corrective action procedures, follow‑up audits, or—where necessary—suspension or withdrawal of certification. The Green Globe label may only be displayed while certification is valid, ensuring continued credibility and trust.
What does EmpCo mean for Green Globe members outside the EU?
EmpCo applies to any sustainability claims targeting EU consumers, regardless of where a business is based. Green Globe certification helps members worldwide communicate sustainability credibly and compliantly when marketing to EU travellers.
Green Globe’s commitment
Green Globe Certification welcomes EmpCo as an important step toward greater trust in sustainability claims. We remain committed to operating an independent, third‑party audited certification scheme, supporting our members and auditors, and ensuring the Green Globe label continues to be a trusted and compliant sustainability mark in Europe and globally.
