Graphic elements such as leaves, water droplets, trees, animals, natural landscapes, shades of green, or other symbols associated with the environment may, under certain circumstances, be perceived by consumers as environmental messages.
These elements do not automatically constitute an environmental claim or a sustainability label; rather, the assessment is made on a case-by-case basis and depends on the overall context of the communication and how the average consumer might perceive it.
Companies should use these elements with caution, bearing in mind that—even when combined with text or other symbols—they can help convey an environmental message that, depending on the circumstances, may be more or less implicit, may reinforce a generic environmental claim, or may lead consumers to believe that the communication is based on a sustainability label—in which case the relevant regulatory provisions and prohibitions apply.
In any case, the communication—including its visual presentation—must accurately, proportionately, and verifiably represent the actual and proven environmental benefits, without exaggeration or vague and/or misleading representations.
Last modified on 25/09/2026