Directive (EU) 2024/825 has been introduced to strengthen consumer protection against misleading commercial practices and greenwashing. This directive raises the bar for the clarity, substantiation, and credibility of environmental claims and sustainability labels. Any cosmetic product placed on the European market must comply with these rigorous requirements as they are transposed into national laws, starting from September 2026.
In response to this regulation, COSMOS and NATRUE have released a joint position statement welcoming the directive. As an authorized certification body, ETKO is proud to confirm that our ETKO COSMOS certification schemes offer a fully compliant, robust, and independently verified framework for brands navigating these new rules.
How ETKO COSMOS Prevents Greenwashing
The joint position statement highlights how recognized independent standards directly combat vague or exaggerated claims through strict mechanisms:
Defined Scope: Certification applies exclusively to clearly identified products and defined certification categories, eliminating ambiguity.
Public and Specific Criteria: All certification requirements are publicly documented and freely accessible, supporting fully informed decision-making.
Controlled Claims: Logo usage and product claims are governed by strict rules, minimizing the risk of overstatement.
Auditable Evidence: Compliance is anchored by intensive documentation reviews and regular, on-site audits conducted by accredited independent certification bodies like ETKO.
The Power of Third-Party Verification
Under Directive (EU) 2024/825, self-declarations are no longer enough. ETKO COSMOS certification provides the necessary independent oversight through:
Full Traceability: Operators must maintain undeniable proof of conformity, including full formulas, supplier evidence, and manufacturing records.
Continuous Monitoring: Certification is an ongoing process requiring regular, systematic monitoring to maintain renewal.
International Accreditation: Schemes are strictly accredited under ISO 17065, ensuring harmonized and globally trusted application.
Preparing for September 2026
By choosing ETKO COSMOS certification, cosmetic brands and retailers can seamlessly substantiate their sustainability-related claims, drastically reduce reputational risks, and offer consumers an easily recognizable, trustworthy seal at the point of sale.
For operators looking to secure their market position in the EU, ETKO provides the ultimate independent verification framework aligned perfectly with the objectives of Directive (EU) 2024/825.
For more information on aligning your products with the upcoming EU requirements, contact our certification team today.