Information about Product Labeling to Meet the EU Empowering Consumers During the Green Transition (EmpCo) Directive

This page addresses Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) related to product claims and labeling in accordance with updated standard requirements, prompted by the EU Empowering Consumers During the Green Transition (EmpCo) Directive, which takes effect on September 27, 2026.

This FAQ is intended only for certification schemes that are owned by SCS Standards and Assurance Systems and certified by SCS Global Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does SCS Global Services’ review and approval of claims and logos constitute compliance with EmpCo?

Our review is to determine conformance with the requirements of the scheme holder (SCS Standards and Assurance Systems). It is the responsibility of each company to ensure legal compliance with claims and labels used in the markets in which they operate. SCS Global Services' guidance should not be interpreted as legal advice.

Where does the QR code or URL need to be placed on the packaging?

Near the certification logo and claim itself, or in a manner that clearly connects the logo and claim to the QR code, to ensure that consumers understand what the QR code is for. If it is not near the certification logo, additional language to introduce what the QR code is for will have to be included.
Where does the QR code or webpage URL need to link?
It needs to link to the relevant certification standard, in one of two ways:
- Directly to the webpage of the relevant standard on the SCS Standards and Assurance Systems website
- OR to a webpage owned by the company that includes the Standard’s webpage on the SCS Standards website.
We already have a QR code on our packaging that links to our website. Will this be acceptable?

Yes, this would be acceptable if you have an explanation of the certification program clearly on your website and a link back to the standard on the SCS Standards and Assurance Systems website for more information.

Why require “alt text”?

The requirements are to make the logo accessible to all by adding Alternative Text (Alt text) that can be read aloud. The Alt text should say the name of the certification mark, such as “Sustainably Grown Certification Mark” or “Recycled Content Certification Mark”, etc.

Can we translate these logos in other languages?

Yes, please contact us here to get the request started. Tell us which language(s) you need, for which country(ies), and what your deadline is. Then we’ll create and send you the logos.
Do we need to translate the text that describes the certification?

SCS Global Services will not be providing those translations to you, but it is a good idea for your company to translate any text that goes on packaging in different regions for easier consumer comprehension. The easier and quicker it is for consumers to understand what the certification is, the more likely it is to comply with EmpCo.

How do we get approval of logos and claims?

Email your mockup design to [email protected] and we’ll review and provide feedback on whether it conforms to the scheme guidance from SCS Standards and Assurance Systems. Please inform us of your deadline so that we can manage requests appropriately. Those printing labels that are going into the EU market immediately will be prioritized.

Do you have an example of an actual label using these new requirements that you could share with us?

Here are some visual mockups of what the logo with QR code or webpage URL could look like. While EmpCo introduces new mandatory requirements, there is an opportunity to use design creativity to educate consumers about your certified sustainability initiatives.

Example of Sustainably Grown Logo Use

Examples of Recycled Content Logo Use

Have another question about EmpCo Guidance that’s not listed here?