Read this to learn how to update your GetYourGuide listings before EU environmental claims rules take effect on September 27, 2026.
This FAQ summarizes the European Commission’s preliminary June 2026 guidance on Directive (EU) 2024/825, also known as the “Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition” Directive. It isn’t legal advice; only the Court of Justice of the European Union can authoritatively interpret EU law.
Where can I find the original sources?
This FAQ is based on the Commission’s guidance. Check these official sources:
- European Commission Questions & Answers on Directive (EU) 2024/825 – Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers, June 2026. Primary source.
- Directive (EU) 2024/825 – full legal text.
What’s changing?
From September 27, 2026, environmental and sustainability claims aimed at EU consumers must be specific, accurate, and supported by evidence. The rules limit vague claims such as “eco-friendly,” “green,” “sustainable,” or “environmentally responsible,” unverified sustainability labels, carbon-offsetting claims, and misleading imagery or comparisons.
Update your listings in the Supplier Portal by September 27, 2026.
Do the rules apply to my listings?
Yes, if travelers in the EU can book your experience, regardless of where your business or experience is located or whether you sell directly or through a marketplace.
The rules cover titles, descriptions, highlights, inclusions, photos, badges, and brand or product names.
National consumer protection authorities and courts enforce these rules, with penalties set by each Member State. Under the Supplier Terms and Conditions, you’re responsible for compliance. GetYourGuide doesn’t review or approve content for legal compliance. Your agreement with GetYourGuide doesn’t change.
Which environmental terms need proof?
Don’t use generic terms such as these unless you have qualifying proof:
- “Eco-friendly”
- “Green”
- “Ecological”
- “Environmentally friendly”
- “Climate friendly”
- “Carbon friendly”
- “Nature’s friend”
- “Biodegradable”
- “Biobased”
- “Energy efficient”
How can I make a general claim more specific?
Put the supporting detail on the same page or screen as the claim.
Not permitted: “Climate-friendly tour”
More specific: “Tour operated using an electric vehicle powered by renewable energy”
If the format doesn’t allow the detail, remove the claim.
Do the rules apply to brand names?
Yes. Names such as “EcoTours Lisbon” or “Green Adventures” may count as environmental claims if they lead consumers to expect an environmental benefit. A trademark doesn’t exempt a name.
What counts as valid proof?
Only the following qualify for a generic environmental claim:
- The EU Ecolabel
- A national or regional EN ISO 14024 Type I ecolabel officially recognized in an EU Member State, such as the Nordic Swan, Blue Angel, Austrian Ecolabel, or Dutch Milieukeur
- Top-class environmental performance established under applicable EU legislation, such as the EU Energy Labelling Regulation
The proof must support your claim.
Can I use nature photos or sustainability imagery?
Nature photos aren’t claims on their own, but may imply one with environmental wording, logos, badges, or other sustainability messaging. Photos must accurately represent the experience. A rainforest image may mislead if your tour doesn’t take place there, especially with “eco-friendly” wording.
When can I use sustainability badges or logos?
Display a sustainability label only when it is:
- Issued by a public authority; or
- Based on a certification scheme with independent third-party verification, publicly available requirements, and transparent, non-discriminatory access for all traders
Self-issued labels and unverified industry logos aren’t allowed. Existing labels aren’t exempt: labels used on or after September 27, 2026 must comply.
Can I describe my experience as “carbon neutral” or “climate neutral”?
Not if the claim is based on carbon offsets rather than verifiable emission reductions within your own operations or value chain. This includes “CO2 neutral certified,” “carbon positive,” “climate compensated,” “reduced climate impact,” and “limited CO2 footprint” when they rely on offsetting. For example, don’t describe a flight as climate neutral because the airline funds reforestation.
Can I mention carbon offsetting?
Yes. You can mention environmental initiatives or carbon credit projects if presented transparently. Don’t use them to claim the experience is neutral or has reduced environmental impact.
Can I mention genuine emission reductions?
Yes. You can communicate verifiable reductions in your operations or value chain, such as using electric vehicles or reducing waste. Explain the basis on the same page or screen.
Can I advertise “net zero by 2030”?
Only if the commitment has:
- A realistic, publicly available implementation plan
- Measurable, time-bound targets
- Allocated resources
- Regular independent third-party verification
- Consumer-accessible findings, such as through a link or QR code
This also applies to “carbon neutral by 2030.” Don’t use the claim without this information.
Can I compare my experience with others?
Yes, if you explain which products and suppliers you’re comparing, how you made the comparison, and how you keep it up to date. Make it clear to travelers.
Can I highlight a benefit shared by all similar experiences?
No. Don’t advertise a benefit that isn’t specific to your experience or business. For example, calling an outdoor tour “sustainable” may mislead if all comparable tours are outdoors.
Can I use “vegan” and “vegetarian” for food experiences?
Yes, when they describe ingredients or food served. If they imply a wider environmental or social benefit, they may be treated as environmental claims or sustainability labels.
Can I use “bio,” “organic,” or “eco” for food products?
You can use these terms for products meeting Regulation (EU) 2018/848 on organic production, not for your entire listing.
What should I do before September 27, 2026?
Review every product and:
- Check the title, description, highlights, inclusions, and photos
- Identify environmental wording, badges, logos, and imagery
- Confirm that each claim has supporting evidence
- Add supporting detail next to the claim
- Update or remove claims you can’t verify
- Review brand and product names for implied environmental claims
- Remove any carbon-neutral or climate-neutral claim based on offsetting
If unsure, remove the claim until you can verify it.
Review your listings now, update unsupported claims by September 27, 2026, and keep evidence for each claim.