Green Industries Initiative

On Oct. 6, 2010, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published a notice soliciting public comment on proposed revisions to its "Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims" (commonly known as "Green Guides" or "Guides").  Companies may be affected by the FTC's proposed revisions if they advertise the "environmental attributes" of a product, package or service.

The FTC will consider and accept comments until Dec. 10, 2010, on the proposed changes, which include:

1. A caution to avoid claims of general environmental benefits.
2. A new section devoted to certifications and seals of approval.
3. Additional guidance for claims that a product is "degradable," "compostable" or "free of" a particular substance.
4. New guidance regarding the use of "renewable materials" and "renewable energy."
5. A new section regarding "carbon offset" claims.

If you would like to discuss the FTC's request for stakeholder input or any of the potential changes to the FTC's Green Guides, please contact Susan Charles or Kristina Tridico.  
       
Read the entire article that includes a summary of the proposed changes and a link to the text of the FTC's proposed revisions.