The Trade Practices Act And Carbon Claims

As Australians become increasingly aware of the effects of climate change and the impact their choices of consumer goods and services are having on the environment, many business are recognising the opportunity to differentiate themselves from their competitors on their 'green credentials', including carbon offsets. Indeed, the use of green credentials as a marketing tool has become a valuable asset in its own right.

The difficulty for environmentally conscious consumers, as noted by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Chairman, Graeme Samuel, is verifying and understanding the carbon offset claims made by businesses. To assist both consumers and businesses, the ACCC has recently launched guidance material on carbon offsets claims.