Overview

• On June 20 the European Commission formally withdrew its Green Claims directive, citing concerns that it would impose excessive administrative burdens on 30 million micro-enterprises
• The proposal would have required companies to substantiate environmental claims with scientific evidence and undergo third-party verification before marketing products
• Socialists and Renew Europe representatives warned that they are prepared to withdraw their backing for President von der Leyen’s Commission if the directive is not restored
• Conservative factions in the European Parliament, including the EPP, ECR and Italy’s Fratelli d’Italia, had lobbied for the pullback arguing the rules amounted to red tape
• Opponents contend the reversal marks a retreat from key elements of the EU Green Deal and reflects mounting influence of industry lobbyists over environmental policy