Japan survey finds unclear, potentially deceptive eco-labels
TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A survey by the Consumer Affairs Agency has found that dozens of eco-labels on products and services in Japan lack clear claims, with
The Consumer Affairs Agency in Japan has found that numerous eco-labels on products and services are unclear and potentially misleading. Established in 1989 by the Japan Environment Association, Eco Mark remains the country's first environment-friendly label; however, labels without third-party certification have emerged since the late 1990s.
A survey conducted last year assessed 139 labels based on six criteria, including clarity and scope. The results revealed that 59 labels employed nature-themed images without elaborating on environmental benefits, while 20 failed to specify whether claims related to products or packaging. Some labels carried the word "certified" and others displayed accreditation numbers, despite lacking third-party certification, according to the agency's August report.
The agency warned that these deceptive labels could breach the Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations, and it would take administrative action in severe cases. Takashi Fujisaki, the association's business division chief, noted that the European Union prohibits environmental labels without third-party certification to prevent greenwashing, a practice of presenting false or misleading information about environmental impact to appear more sustainable.
In addition, 30 to 40 percent of consumers surveyed said they refer to environmental labels when making purchasing decisions. Clarifying whether labels are certified or original by businesses could aid consumers in making informed choices, Fujisaki concluded.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
