EU Investigates 20 Airlines, Including Air France and Brussels Airlines, for Potential Greenwashing

The European Commission and the EU consumer protection authorities, known as the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC), have launched an inquiry into 20 airlines for potentially misleading consumers with claims of sustainable or carbon-neutral flights. Among the airlines under scrutiny are Air France and Brussels Airlines, according to a Reuters report on May 2, 2024.

The authorities have sent letters to the airlines, reminding them to correct or scientifically substantiate any claims that could constitute greenwashing. The investigation specifically targets the airlines' assertions that CO2 emissions from flights can be offset by climate projects or the use of sustainable aviation fuels.

Why this matters: The investigation highlights the growing concern over greenwashing in the aviation industry and the need for transparency in environmental claims. As consumers become increasingly conscious of their carbon footprint, the accuracy and credibility of airlines' sustainability efforts come under greater scrutiny.

Practices that are considered potentially problematic include claiming the use of sustainable aviation fuels without specifying their environmental impact or giving the impression that CO2 emissions can be fully compensated by paying a surcharge for climate projects or alternative fuels.

The airlines have been given 30 days to comply with the legislation, either by ending the alleged greenwashing or by providing the necessary evidence and nuances to support their claims. Failure to comply could result in sanctions from the consumer protection authorities, ranging from warnings to fines of up to 80,000 euros or 4% of the company's annual turnover.

The investigation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the aviation industry's efforts to reduce its environmental impact. As the demand for sustainable travel options grows, airlines must ensure that their claims are accurate, substantiated, and not misleading to consumers.

Key Takeaways

• EU authorities investigate 20 airlines for potential greenwashing claims.
• Airlines must correct or scientifically substantiate sustainability claims within 30 days.
• Problematic practices include misleading claims about carbon offsets and sustainable fuels.
• Failure to comply could result in sanctions, including warnings and fines up to 4% of revenue.
• Investigation highlights need for transparency in aviation industry's environmental efforts.