Resources aimed at identifying and preventing greenwashing in footwear and apparel are being finalized through the Erasmus+ VETting Green project.
From January 21-23, the Erasmus+ VETting Green consortium, comprising footwear producers, training providers, and consumer representatives from five European countries, met in Padua, Italy. Their goal was to finalize resources for combating greenwashing in the footwear and apparel industries.
A key focus was training coaches for the VETting Green Training Platform, an online course with six modules covering sustainability, green marketing, eco-design, and sustainable materials. This platform will be piloted through online and in-person workshops, supported by a coach guide, questionnaire, and strategic roadmap. Further results are expected in October 2025.
The project aligns with EU efforts to counter greenwashing, supported by the anticipated Green Claims Directive (expected in the first half of 2025) and the development of the Digital Product Passport. These initiatives, along with the Ecodesign of Sustainable Products Regulation, aim to reduce the environmental impact of products.