Promoting Sustainable Consumer Behavior with Reliable Green Communication – A Discussion with GVH at the BCSDH Communication Working Group

How much are “conscious” consumers influenced by false green labels and claims? What happens when consumers themselves become obstacles to our green commitments? How can we engage consumers in our sustainability efforts? How can we avoid greenwashing? Will claims of carbon neutrality achieved through offsetting be blacklisted under the expected EU regulations?

Dr. Izabella Szoboszlai, Member of the Competition Council and representative of the Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH), engaged in a discussion with participants of the BCSDH Communication Working Group on avoiding greenwashing. The session, held on September 24, 2024, was hosted by Zsuzsa Berman, Regional Communications Manager of BNP Paribas, who welcomed the attendees with a brief introductory presentation.

A consumer survey by the Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) revealed that manufacturers and retailers bear significant responsibility, as consumers are highly receptive to green claims. Even those who consider themselves conscious consumers can be misled by false claims and green labels. We can only expect consumers to adopt sustainable consumption habits if they can trust the information provided on products. They need access to all essential knowledge about a product’s reparability, recyclability, and environmental impact before making a purchase, and they must be protected from misleading claims. Building the trust required to involve consumers in sustainability efforts is only possible through credible green communication, free from exaggeration and focused on transparency.

During the discussion, participants gained insight into the key aspects of current and upcoming EU regulations. A stricter legal framework awaits companies, but the ultimate goal is to ensure that a genuine green transition also takes place on the consumer side. The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) supports businesses in navigating this landscape with its recommendations.