Wettbewerbszentrale 2026: Strict Control of Greenwashing

The Wettbewerbszentrale The Zentrale zur Bekämpfung unlauteren Wettbewerbs e.V. (Wettbewerbszentrale, German Centre for Protection against Unfair Competition) based in Bad Homburg, has been the largest self-regulatory body in the German economy since 1912.

Role in Greenwashing The Wettbewerbszentrale, as a qualified trade association, has the right to sue (registered under § 8b UWG, § 8(3) UWG). However, unlike the DUH, it focuses on competition violations between companies — and not primarily on consumer protection.

Current Focus 2025/2026 1. Climate neutral advertising — Systematic prosecution following the Katjes ruling 2. Own sustainability seals — Per-se prohibition from the entry into force of EmpCo 3. “Promises for the future” — “Carbon neutral by 2030” without a plan 4. Industry-specific deficiencies — e.g. energy suppliers

Proceedings 1. Anonymous notifications are possible via the Wettbewerbszentrale website 2. Preliminary review by employees 3. Warning letter to the affected company 4. Declaration of commitment with contractual penalty (typically €5,001) 5. In case of refusal: Lawsuit before a civil court

Practical relevance The Wettbewerbszentrale handles a large number of competition-law complaints each year, with greenwashing matters tending to gain importance. Most cases are settled out of court.

What you can do - Competitor watch: Regularly check the advertising of competitors - Own compliance: Empcora for self-assessment - In case of violations: Notification to the Wettbewerbszentrale (legitimate competitive strategy) - In case of your own warning letter: Consult a lawyer