Session 3: Protecting and empowering consumers in the green transition
Oct 9, 2024 | 9:30 AM - 11:00 AMCC15
Oct 9, 2024 | 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
CC15
Description
Studies show that many consumers globally are concerned about the environment and that these concerns can be important to consumer decisions. In well-functioning markets, these consumers have the potential to incentivise businesses to provide more sustainable goods and services, including through innovative business models and digital tools. However, consumers may be impeded from acting on their preferences by a lack of clear, accurate and easily understandable information about the environmental impact of products, misleading or unsubstantiated green claims, and other obstacles, such as cost and availability. To address these, jurisdictions are implementing policy and enforcement measures, including taking action against misleading green claims or facilitating repair. Insights into consumer understanding of environmental claims and possible obstacles to sustainable consumption can inform evidence-based policy measures. Business initiatives and digital technologies can also play a role in facilitating the green transition. This session will explore obstacles to sustainable consumption consumers face, the role consumer policy and other policy areas can play to help consumers who want to make green choices to do so, and areas for further research.
