Furniture & Interior Design: Greenwashing Risk 2026

The furniture and interior design sector faces considerable challenges from 2026 onwards due to the EU EmpCo Directive (2024/825) and the associated tightening of competition law. Consumers are placing increasing value on sustainability, which has led to a rise in "greenwashing" practices. Companies making misleading environmental claims risk not only warnings under § 5 UWG, but also damage to their reputation and loss of trust. Under § 5 UWG and the EmpCo Directive (EU 2024/825), the term "sustainable" without transparent supply chains or recognised certificates is classified as misleading. This applies directly to the furniture sector, in which the origin of the wood, the materials used and the production conditions play a decisive role. The EmpCo Directive tightens these requirements from 27 September 2026 by prohibiting generic claims without recognised proof (Annex I No. 4a UCPD). Particularly critical is the use of terms such as "environmentally friendly" or "natural" without concrete evidence. Manufacturers must prove that their furniture is genuinely environmentally friendly, for example through the use of low-pollutant varnishes (DIN EN 71-3), certification under the Blue Angel or Cradle to Cradle. The claim "climate-neutral" is also impermissible from 2026 if it is based on CO2 offsetting (Annex I No. 4c UCPD). Instead, companies must present concrete reduction targets and transparent information on the CO2 footprint of their products. Focusing on transparent supply chains, recognised certificates and specific product information is the key to a warning-proof and sustainable marketing presence in the furniture and interior design sector.