A recent report issued by the Australian Consumer and Competition
Commission intended as guidance to businesses in Australia, has suggested car
makers who market their cars as “zero emissions vehicles” could well fall foul of
Australian Consumer Law. The report advises car makers to consider the overall
lifetime emissions of their vehicles before marketing them as environmentally
friendly – suggesting companies must include the impacts of raw material
sourcing, manufacturing, transport and end of life solutions. The ACCC
Environmental and Sustainability Claims report provides an example of how zero
emission claims could be held as false or misleading advertising, detailing how it
only considers the emissions produced while the vehicle is being driven. And
does not consider the emissions generated during the manufacturing process or
whilst being charged, warning companies against “greenwashing” their image to
mislead consumers. I’m David Berthon

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