Until recently, the EU lacked a specific framework governing green claims. A new Directive aiming at “empowering consumers for the green transition” supplements the existing rules on unfair commercial practices to include a new harmonized regime for green claims, applicable from September 2026. Businesses should carefully consider how this new regime will impact their upcoming commercial communications, including voluntary environmental reports and climate targets, to mitigate legal and reputational risks.

In February 2025, the EU Commission introduced the Omnibus Simplification Package to streamline sustainability regulations. This package includes two proposed Directives: the “Stop-the-clock” Directive, which proposes delaying the CSRD and CSDDD compliance timelines, and a second Directive that suggests substantive changes to both the CSRD and CSDDD. The “Stop-the-clock” Directive is now close to being approved, giving businesses more certainty on the timeline for compliance.