Munich – October 30, 2026 -- ClimatePartner has subjected its label for printers, "Print Product with Financial Climate Contribution", to independent third-party review since May 2026, in response to stricter EU rules on sustainability claims that have applied since 27 September 2026.

EmpCo directive bars offset-based climate claims

The EU directive Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (EmpCo) tightens the rules for environmental claims and sustainability labels. It prohibits statements that attribute a neutral, reduced or positive climate impact to a product on the basis of greenhouse gas compensation. Companies may still disclose financial support for climate projects if the communication meets the applicable requirements and is not misleading.

ClimatePartner Managing Director Moritz Lehmkuhl said printers need reliable foundations to communicate their climate engagement transparently under the new regime.

Printers link customer contributions to individual print jobs

With ClimatePartner's support, printers calculate the emissions of each print job. Their customers can then make a financial contribution to certified climate projects. The label is placed directly on the printed product, and a ClimatePartner ID lets readers see which emissions were calculated for the order and which project is supported.

DEKRA review confirms viaprinto meets label requirements

The label, available since 2023, is part of ClimatePartner's certification program. An independent body now checks whether the emissions calculation and the financial contribution based on it meet the requirements before the label is awarded.

Printer viaprinto GmbH & Co. KG already uses the label. DEKRA Assurance Services GmbH examined whether the emissions of its print product were calculated according to the standard and whether a financial contribution was made on that basis. In its result dated 7 October 2026, DEKRA confirmed that the requirements are met and recommended awarding the label.