Poland Tightens Rules on Eco Claims — Consumers Will Notice

18 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Poland enacts new greenwashing rules from 27 Sep 2026, restricting ‘eco’ claims on packaging and ads. Learn what expats should expect.

The government decided to tighten greenwashing rules from 27 September 2026. Companies must prove claims such as “eco” or “climate neutral” or face enforcement.

Table of Contents

What changed and why it matters

The Council of Ministers adopted amendments to unfair commercial practice laws. Consequently, the state aligns national law with EU Directive 2024/825. Moreover, the changes aim to stop misleading environmental claims. Therefore, businesses cannot use vague green language without evidence. The rules cover ads, packaging, product names, and visual cues. In addition, the law forbids calling a whole product green when only one part qualifies.

How the greenwashing rules will hit packaging and marketing

Companies will need proof to use environmental labels. Consequently, use will require recognised certification or public systems. Moreover, firms cannot claim climate neutrality by offsetting alone. Therefore, they must show measurable reductions. The rules also ban portraying legal requirements as special benefits. In addition, sellers must not advertise repairability if repairs are impractical. Businesses may change logos, colours, or names that suggest environmental performance. As a result, manufacturers face redesign costs and relabelling tasks.

Enforcement, timing and industry reaction

The new law takes effect on 27 September 2026. UOKiK will oversee compliance and enforce penalties. UOKiK is Poland’s Office of Competition and Consumer Protection. However, sectors warn about short notice and costs. Retailers call for a transitional sales period. Moreover, food producers fear forced disposal of non-compliant stock. Consequently, critics warn of increased food waste. The government argues compliance prevents long-term consumer harm. Therefore, regulators expect companies to audit claims now.

Practical steps for businesses and consumers

If you run a business, review all marketing materials. In addition, consult certification bodies before redesigning labels. If you buy products, check for credible seals and documentation. Moreover, ask sellers for proof when claims matter to you. Consumers can file complaints with UOKiK or local consumer councils. Also, keep receipts and product images as evidence.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you live in Poland, the new rules mean clearer eco-claims on goods and fewer misleading labels. For complaints, contact UOKiK (Office of Competition and Consumer Protection) or local municipal consumer help. Note: PESEL is the national ID number; ZUS manages pensions and social insurance; NFZ runs public health insurance; mandat means a fine. Keep receipts and photos if you report misleading advertising.

For expats, this change may affect what you see on supermarket shelves and online stores. In addition, product prices might rise slightly to cover relabelling costs. However, you’ll likely gain clearer information on a product’s real environmental impact. Therefore, you can make more informed buying choices. Also, knowing where to complain helps when sellers mislead you.

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