Implementation of the EmpCo Requirements

Implementation of the EmpCo Requirements at EDELRID

 

With the entry into force of the requirements of Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (EmpCo Directive (EU) 2024/825) on 27 September 2026, the requirements governing the communication of environmentally related product characteristics within the European Union are evolving further. The Directive extends the provisions of the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD) and aims to strengthen the transparency, traceability and reliability of environmental claims and to prevent misleading environmental and sustainability communication.

In particular, general and insufficiently substantiated environmental claims, non-verifiable sustainability claims, misleading environmental labels, and claims regarding environmental or social benefits without sufficient evidence will be subject to stricter regulation. Consumers should be enabled to make purchasing decisions on the basis of clear, verifiable and comparable information.

At EDELRID, we expressly welcome this development. The objectives of EmpCo and the UCPD are in line with our own commitment to avoiding greenwashing and to communicating claims regarding environmental and social responsibility as transparently, traceably and fact-based as possible.

As part of implementing the new regulatory requirements, we continuously review our sustainability, environmental and social communications and adapt them step by step where necessary. In doing so, we assess existing claims, labels, illustrations, product names and communication content with regard to their clarity, substantiation and regulatory compliance.

At the same time, certain terms or designations are, in some cases, historically embedded in product names, product master data, international sales structures, IT systems, packaging or technical documentation. A complete adjustment at short notice is therefore not always immediately possible. In such cases, we transparently explain the meaning and background of the respective designation and provide supplementary explanations concerning the affected product information on our website and in a glossary at the end of the Dealer Workbook. In doing so, we follow the principle of communicating specific and substantiated product characteristics rather than making general environmental or sustainability claims.

Our commitment remains unchanged: we stand for transparent, honest and traceable communication that not only complies with the requirements of EmpCo and the UCPD and avoids greenwashing, but above all provides a basis for informed purchasing decisions and offers our customers reliable guidance for work at height and climbing.

  • Organic Cotton
    Explanation

    The term organic cotton refers to cotton from controlled organic cultivation, where cultivation is carried out in accordance with defined ecological standards

    Examples

    … contains organic cotton …

    … made from pure organic cotton …

    … material blend of organic cotton and recycled cotton …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of the EmpCo Directive, claims relating to organic cotton must be traceable and substantiated. In addition, the respective proportion of organic cotton should be stated transparently

    Approach

    In accordance with the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, we only make claims regarding the use of organic cotton if appropriate evidence is available

    Case A: a certificate is available
    If a recognised certificate is available, we state the proportion of organic cotton and the underlying certification

    Example:  

    Contains xx% cotton from controlled organic cultivation in accordance with [name of certificate]

    Case B: Written confirmation from the supplier is available
    If no independent certification is available but written confirmation from the material supplier is available, we clearly disclose this

    Example:  

    Contains xx% cotton from controlled organic cultivation. This information is based on written confirmation from our material supplier; no independent certification is available.

    Case C: Only verbal confirmation is available

    Verbal statements do not constitute sufficient evidence. In this case, we refrain from making claims relating to organic cotton

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

     

  • Service Life and Quality Claims
    Explanation

    Claims relating to service life, durability, robustness or resistance describe product characteristics that consumers often understand as indicators of quality. Under the requirements of the EmpCo Directive, such claims must be traceable, objectively substantiated and as specific as possible.
    Particularly in the case of personal protective equipment (PPE), it should be taken into account that the actual service life depends on numerous factors, such as conditions of use, loads, care, storage and regular inspections. Claims must therefore not suggest an unlimited or generally above-average service life.

    Examples

    … durable / particularly durable / lasts particularly long …
    … long service life …
    … extremely robust …
    … highly resistant …
    … indestructible …
    … maximum durability …
    … designed for a long service life …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, claims relating to service life or quality must be verifiable and substantiated
    Particularly critical are:
    general claims without specific explanation
    intensifiers such as “particularly”, “extremely” or “exceptionally” claims that do not specify an objective basis for comparison claims suggesting unlimited durability or indestructibility claims regarding the service life of PPE without reference to the relevant instructions for use or safety-related requirements.

    Approach

    We only make claims regarding service life and quality if appropriate evidence is available.

    Case A: Reliable test or performance evidence is available
    If a characteristic can be objectively substantiated through product tests, material tests, standardised tests or technical specifications, we use a factual and specific description of the tested characteristic.

    Example:  

    The aluminium carabiner was tested for a major-axis breaking load of 20 kN as part of the standardised testing.

    Case B: Technical product features are available, but no service-life testing has been carried out
    If a product feature can generally contribute to the resistance of a product but no specific service life has been measured, we describe only the feature itself

    Example:  

    Reinforced construction in the main load-bearing areas.

    Case C: No reliable evidence is available

    If neither test reports nor technical evidence are available, we refrain from making claims regarding service life, robustness or durability

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

    Special information for PPE products

    For PPE products, service life is safety-relevant. We therefore generally avoid claims that could give the impression that inspection, maintenance or replacement requirements do not apply. We refer to the information provided in the relevant instructions for use as well as to the applicable legal requirements and normative specifications.

  •  1R, 2R, 3R 

    Important: For our approach to the use of the 1R, 2R and 3R designations in product names, see the category „Claims in Product names“. For the use of designations in the form of illustrations, for example through the use of logos, see the category „Use of Illustrations“.

    Explanation

    We use the designations “1R”, “2R” and “3R” for products in which defined product components can be attributed to strategies for reducing material use (1R = Reduce), reuse (2R = Reuse) or recycling (3R = Recycle). The specific meaning and respective material proportions may vary depending on the product. In general, the attributed meanings can be described as follows.

    1R – Reduce
    Materials or components originally intended for a product are reduced, replaced or partially substituted with alternative raw materials.
    Example:
    In the BIRDLIME 1R 9.8 MM, some fossil-based raw material components are replaced by raw material components derived from castor oil. Based on calculations, approximately 39% of the total weight of the rope material can be attributed to raw material components derived from castor oil.

    2R – Reuse
    Existing materials or components are reused without first being processed into new raw material.
    Example:
    The HIPHIKER 2R contains material components originating from production remnants of other materials. These materials were originally manufactured for a different purpose and are reused without first being processed into new raw material.

    3R – Recycle
    Materials are processed after previous use or after arising as production remnants and are subsequently used again as raw material. The processed materials replace a proportion of newly produced raw materials.
    Example:
    The yarns used to manufacture the NEO 100 3R 9.6 MM are made from 100% recycled material
    The designations are intended to provide a transparent description of specific material characteristics or material origins. They do not constitute a general claim regarding the overall environmental performance or sustainability of a product.

    Examples

    … BIRDLIME 1R 9.8 MM …
    … HIPHIKER 2R …
    … NEO 100 3R 9.6 MM …
    … made from recycled materials (3R) …
    … By using this renewable resource, we reduce (1R) …
    … For this rope, 2R (“Reuse”) refers to the reuse of …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, claims relating to material reductions, reuse or recycling must be transparent, traceable and substantiated. In particular, it must be clear:

    • which material is concerned
    • which product component is concerned
    • what proportion of recycled material is used
    • whether the material is pre-consumer or post-consumer material
    • which recycling process was used

    The designations 1R, 2R and 3R may therefore only be used if their meaning can be transparently
    explained and appropriate evidence is available.
    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, recycling claims must be
    clear, traceable and substantiated.

    Approach

    Claims relating to 1R, 2R and 3R are only made if appropriate evidence is available.

    Case A: Reliable material and supplier documentation is available
    If the respective material proportions and material origins are documented in a traceable manner, we
    use the designation together with a specific explanation.
    Example:  

    3R – Recycling. The product contains xx% post-industrial recycled material. The proportion relates to
    [part/component] and is based on the available supplier documentation or certification

    Case B: Only partial documentation is available
    If the material origin or material proportions are generally documented but no independent verification
    is available, we clearly disclose this.
    Example:
    The product is designated as 2R. It contains material components from production remnants that were

    originally manufactured for a different purpose and are reused without first being processed into new
    raw material. The classification is based on information provided by our supplier and on our internal
    assessment of this information. No independent certification is currently available.

    Case C: No reliable evidence is available

    If material proportions, material origins or reuse processes cannot be documented in a traceable
    manner, we refrain from making claims relating to 1R, 2R or 3R.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media whose content we can directly access and where
    changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes in particular our websites, product
    detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources
    Excluded are contents for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:

    • product videos that have already been published
    • social media posts that have already been published
    • printed materials and materials that have already been produced, such as flyers, product packaging,
      catalogues or POS materials
    • use in product names, see also “Claims in Product Names”

    These contents will be adapted as part of regular update or subsequent production cycles

     

  • Climb Green
    Explanation

    #ClimbGreen, sometimes also referred to as “Climb Green”, is a product designation developed and internally defined by EDELRID. We used it to identify products that, according to our own internal assessment applicable at the time of the respective evaluation, met certain environmental and social criteria as well as external standards and certifications within their product category. Climb Green is not an independent environmental label, a certification system or an officially recognised sustainability label. For further information, see Climb Green Manifest. Various information and marketing activities relating to the designation and the underlying product characteristics are also communicated under the hashtag #ClimbGreen.

    Examples

    … #ClimbGreen Tour …
    … #ClimbGreen collection …
    … From head to toe “Climb Green” …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, claims regarding the environmental or sustainability performance of a product are only permissible if they are objectively traceable, verifiable and substantiated. As #ClimbGreen is based on an internal, multidimensional assessment rather than on a uniform, widely recognised market standard, and as there is no accreditation by an authorised external body, there is an increased risk from an EmpCo perspective that the designation could be understood as a recognised environmental or sustainability label.

    Approach

    Case A: Communication within the European Union
    With the entry into force of the European requirements implementing EmpCo, we will discontinue the use of the #ClimbGreen product designation within the European Union. This applies both to the labelling of products and to the use of the claim in ongoing information and marketing communications. To transparently explain the previous use of the #ClimbGreen designation, we will continue to provide information on the origin, methodology and objectives of the concept as well as the reasons for subsequently discontinuing its use within the European Union. This information is available via a central landing page and the EDELRID #ClimbGreen Manifest.

    Case B: Communication outside the European Union
    In markets outside the European Union, Climb Green may continue to be used provided that the underlying criteria are explained transparently. In many markets outside the European Union, there are currently no regulatory frameworks comparable to EmpCo that pursue the same objective of supporting consumers in assessing complex product-related environmental information through harmonised systems that enable comparisons across the market.

     

    Against this background, we continue to consider the original purpose of our Climb Green designation to be relevant in these markets. The designation is intended to provide additional guidance and draw attention to traceable product characteristics. However, it does not replace detailed product information or transparent communication of the respective underlying criteria. For this reason, the assessment principles, criteria and methodology underlying the designation will continue to be reviewed regularly and updated and explained annually as part of our EDELRID CLIMB GREEN MANIFEST.


    Case C: Historical communication

    Historical content or archive materials may refer to the former existence of the designation.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

     

  • Absolute Claims
    Explanation

    Absolute claims suggest a best value, unrestricted performance or a guaranteed result. These include, in particular, terms such as “optimal”, “perfect”, “ideal”, “complete”, “always”, “guaranteed” or “maximum”. Such claims may create the impression that a characteristic applies without limitations, under all conditions or in comparison with all alternatives.

    Examples

    … optimal force transmission and load absorption …
    … perfect handling thanks to Thermo Shield treatment …
    … guarantees comfort and freedom of movement …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, advertising claims must be clear, traceable and substantiated. Absolute claims are therefore only permissible if there is an appropriate objective basis or an actual guarantee.

    Approach

    Case A: Objective tests or reliable evidence are available
    If a characteristic can be substantiated by test reports, technical measurements, standardised tests or comparable evidence, we use claims that are as specific and verifiable as possible.

    Example:  

    “The Thermo Shield treatment reduced the measured friction by xx% compared with the untreated material.”

    Case B: Experience or internal assessments are available
    If claims are based on product experience, development assessments or feedback from application tests, we identify this accordingly.

    Example:  

    “In internal application tests, test users rated the handling as ‘better’ in a direct comparison with the previous version.”

    Case C: No reliable evidence is available

    If neither objective test results nor traceable assessments are available, we refrain from using absolute claims.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

     

  • Superlatives
    Explanation

    We use the term superlatives to refer to claims that attribute a leading position to a product, characteristic or performance.

    Examples

    … the best rope for demanding applications …
    … the lightest single rope …
    … the first choice for climbing gym operators …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, consumer information must be clear, accurate and verifiable. Superlatives are particularly critical where:

    • no objective basis for comparison is specified
    • the scope of the comparison remains unclear
    • no specific time frame is given
    • no geographical scope is defined
    • no reliable comparative data is available
    Approach

    Superlatives are only used if appropriate evidence is available.

    Case A: Independent evidence is available
    If the leading position can be documented by reliable external evidence, the claim may be used. Suitable evidence may include, for example:

    • independent product tests
    • recognised market studies
    • certifications
    • published comparative studies
    • objective analyses of technical data
     


    Case B: The claim relates to our own product range
    If the leading position applies exclusively within our own product portfolio, this must be stated transparently.

    Example:  

    “The SISKIN ECO DRY is the lightest single rope in our range.”

    Case C: No reliable evidence is available

    If no objective comparative data is available, we refrain from using superlatives and market-related claims of a leading position. Instead, we describe specific product characteristics.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

     

  • Recycling Claims
    Explanation

    The term “recycling claims” refers to claims used to identify products or product components that are made wholly or partly from recycled or reused materials. These include, in particular, claims such as:

    • recycled
    • made from recycled material
    • upcycling
    Examples

    … partially recycled sport climbing harness …
    … made from recycled rope material from our own production …
    … recycled polyamide …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, recycling claims must be clear, traceable and substantiated.
    In particular, it must be clear:

    • which material is concerned
    • which product component is concerned
    • what proportion of recycled material is used
    • whether the material is pre-consumer or post
    • consumer material
    • which recycling process was used
    Approach

    We only make claims regarding recycled materials if appropriate evidence is available.

    Case A: A certificate or independent evidence is available
    If a recognised certification or other independent evidence is available for the respective claim, we transparently state the proportion of recycled material, the material or component concerned, the type of recycling process used and the underlying certification or corresponding evidence.

    Example:

    “Contains [insert percentage] chemically recycled polyamide (PA6) from production waste (post-industrial material, GRS-certified)”

    Case B: Written supplier confirmation or internal material documentation is available.

    If no independent certification is available but written confirmation from the material supplier is available, we clearly disclose this.

    Example:  

    “Contains xx% mechanically recycled polyamide from production remnants. This information is based on material documentation and supplier information; no independent certification is available.”

    Case C: No sufficient evidence is available

    If no reliable evidence regarding the recycled content or material origin is available, we refrain from making corresponding claims.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

  • Social Claims
    Explanation

    The term “social claims” refers to claims relating to social aspects of our business activities, our supply chain or the manufacture of products.

    Examples

    … fairly produced …
    … fair working conditions …
    … responsibly manufactured …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, social claims must be clear, understandable and verifiable. As social conditions regularly depend on numerous factors and may vary across complex supply chains, corresponding claims must be clearly defined, specifically explained and substantiated in a traceable manner.
    In particular, it must be clear:

    • which area the claim relates to
    • whether the claim relates to the company, a supplier, a production facility or a product
    • which specific social characteristic is meant
    • what evidence is available to support the claim
    Approach

    EDELRID has been a member of the Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) since mid-2021 and, on this basis, has developed its own HRDD Policy, signed by the management and dated January 2025. The policy is based on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines and follows a six-step due diligence process covering integration, risk identification, remediation, monitoring, communication and remedy. Its current scope covers textile and footwear production, including sewing and assembly facilities within the FWF programme. A gradual extension to other product groups, such as hardgoods, is planned but has not yet been completed.
    Whether a social claim may be used depends on whether the respective product falls within the scope of the HRDD Policy and the FWF programme.

    Case A: The product falls within the scope of FWF
    The Fair Wear Foundation is a multi-stakeholder initiative that supports EDELRID in implementing human rights due diligence within its supply chains. Membership facilitates the identification, mitigation and remediation of human rights risks and adverse impacts, promotes access to grievance and remedy mechanisms for workers, and supports the monitoring and transparent communication of progress. Membership is not a product or factory certification and does not guarantee that a supply chain is free from human rights risks or adverse impacts.

    Case B: The product does not fall within the scope of FWF
    If a product falls outside the current scope of the HRDD Policy and the FWF scope, we refrain from making social claims regarding that product.

     
    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

     

  • Environmental and Sustainability Claims

    IMPORTANT: See also the explanations in the categories „1R, 2R, 3R“, „Eco“, and „Claims in Product Names“.

    Explanation

    Environmental and sustainability claims refer to the environmental impact, raw material basis or perceived environmental benefits of a product, its components, its manufacture or the supply chain.

    Examples
    • green
    • environmentally friendly
    • environmentally compatible
    • sustainable / sustainability
    • resource-efficient
    • responsible
    • organic / organic cotton, see category “Organic Cotton”
    • bio-based
    • made from renewable raw materials
    • vegan friendly
    • PFAS-free / PFC-free, see also claims relating to PFAS
    • respectful use of resources / the environment / nature
     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, such claims must not be used in a general or misleading manner. They must relate to specific, traceable and substantiated product characteristics. General environmental claims that consumers may understand as referring to the overall environmental performance of a product are particularly critical. Many such claims do not describe a specific product characteristic and cannot be objectively verified without additional explanation.

    Approach

    As a general rule, EDELRID does not use such terms as standalone product or environmental claims. Instead, we communicate the respective underlying characteristic or measure.

    Case A: A specific and substantiated product characteristic is available
    If an environmental or sustainability claim is based on a specific characteristic, we communicate the underlying facts directly

    Instead of:

    • sustainable
    • environmentally friendly
    • resource-efficient
    • responsible

    We communicate, for example:

    • Contains xx% recycled polyamide
    • The impregnation is PFAS-free
    • Contains xx% cotton from controlled organic cultivation
    • Contains xx% bio-based raw material components derived from castor oil
    • A bluesign® certification is available for this material


    Case B: The claim is based on a certificate, standard or independent evidence

    If independent evidence is available, we state the underlying characteristic and the corresponding standard or evidence

    Example:  

    "Contains xx% cotton from controlled organic cultivation in accordance with [certificate]."
    "The impregnation is PFAS-free according to the available material specifications."
    "The material is certified as bluesign® approved."

    Case C: No sufficient evidence is available

    If no traceable evidence is available, we refrain from making environmental and sustainability claims.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

  • ECO

    IMPORTANT: For our approach to the use of the designation “ECO” in product names, see the category „Claims in Product Names“. 

    Explanation

    The terms “Eco”, “Öko”, “Oeko” or “ecological” are regularly understood by consumers as indicating particular environmental benefits of a product. At EDELRID, too, these terms have been used in the context of environmental claims. They may occur in different contexts:

    • as part of product names or product designations, see category “Claims in Product Names”
    • as a historically established designation for individual product characteristics
    • as part of existing product and master data
    • as an environmental claim where a specific environmental aspect is communicated

    The use of such a term alone does not constitute evidence of a particular environmental performance of a product.

    Examples

    … ecological …
    … Eco Dry …
    … Eco Rope …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, general environmental claims such as “environmentally friendly”, “ecological”, “green”, “eco” or “öko” are generally considered critical unless it is clearly explained what the claim specifically refers to. General environmental promises, product names or terms such as “ecological product” or “Eco product” without specific evidence or explanations are particularly critical, as are claims suggesting an overall better environmental performance.

    Approach

    Case A: “Eco” or “Öko” is used as an environmental claim
    If the term has previously been used to describe a specific product characteristic, the underlying characteristic must be transparently explained, justified and substantiated. The specific product characteristic is communicated rather than the general term “eco” or “ecological”
    Example:
    "The product is made from xx% recycled polyamide."

    Case B: “Eco” is part of an existing product name
    For certain products, the designation “ECO” has historically been part of the product name or product designation for many years and is therefore deeply embedded in our processes and systems. Our understanding of and specific approach to EmpCo compliance in product names are explained in detail in the category “Claims in Product Names”.
    Example:
    SISKIN ECO DRY 9.8 MM

    Case C: No specific and reliable environmental basis is available
    If no specific environmental benefit or traceable product characteristic can be substantiated, we refrain from using terms that describe environmental claims

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media whose content we can directly access and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes in particular our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources
    Excluded are contents for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed materials and materials that have already been produced, such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    These contents will be adapted as part of regular update or subsequent production cycles.

  • Claims relating to PFAS / PFC

    IMORTANT: See also the categories „ECO“ an „Environmental and Sustainability Claims“.

    Explanation

    PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and PFCs (per- and polyfluorinated chemicals) have historically been widely used for water-, oil- and dirt-repellent treatments for textiles and ropes. EDELRID developed alternatives at an early stage and has actively used them in production since 2018 without the use of PFAS or PFCs. This made it possible to achieve water-repellent product characteristics without using this group of substances. In the past, this was actively communicated, for example through the product designation “ECO DRY”, and was sometimes highlighted as a relevant product characteristic.
    According to our current knowledge, no materials or treatments containing PFAS or PFCs are used in any products manufactured by EDELRID since 2026.

    Examples

    … Eco Dry treatment does not use PFCs or PFAS …
    … long-lasting water- and dirt-repellent properties thanks to PFAS- and PFC-free Eco Dry treatment …
    … PFC-free single rope …
    … single rope with a low-pollutant, PFC-free coating …

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    As regulatory developments within the European Union progress, the significance of product-related claims concerning PFAS and PFCs is also changing. As regulatory restrictions and bans on this group of substances increasingly become the market standard, it will become less clear from a consumer perspective whether a PFAS-free product actually represents a particular product characteristic or merely compliance with existing regulatory requirements.
    Against this background, there is a risk that prominently advertising a product as PFAS-free could be understood as a particular environmental benefit, even though this characteristic will increasingly be expected or required by regulation in the future.

    Approach

    In the past, PFAS- or PFC-free products were sometimes communicated as an innovation. This communication took place at a time when PFAS-free alternatives were not yet technically commonplace and avoiding PFAS was regarded as a relevant product characteristic.

    In light of regulatory developments, EDELRID is reassessing this communication in the context of the applicable requirements. Accordingly, product characteristics that were previously commonly
    achieved through the use of PFAS and that EDELRID achieves through PFAS-free alternatives are generally no longer promoted as standalone environmental or sustainability benefits.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media for which we have direct control over the content and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes, in particular, our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are content items for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    • products already placed on the market or produced before 27 September 2026 and currently held in our warehouse
    These contents will be updated as part of regular revision or reprint cycles.

  • FAIRWEAR
    Explanation

    The Fair Wear Foundation is a multi-stakeholder initiative that supports companies in implementing human rights due diligence within their supply chains. Membership facilitates the identification, mitigation and remediation of human rights risks and adverse impacts, promotes access to grievance and remedy mechanisms for workers, and supports the monitoring and transparent communication of progress. Membership is not a product or factory certification and does not guarantee that a supply chain is free from human rights risks or adverse impacts.
    EDELRID has been a member of Fair Wear since 2020.

     Classification according to EmpCo 

    With the entry into force of the EmpCo requirements, the requirements governing the communication of environmental and social claims within the European Union have become considerably more stringent. Against this background, Fair Wear reviewed and adapted its member communications to help ensure that claims regarding membership cannot be understood as general or blanket social promises.
    In particular, the intention is to prevent consumers from concluding from membership that individual products are automatically “fair”, “ethically produced” or “manufactured under fair working conditions”.

    Approach

    As part of the adaptation to the EmpCo requirements, Fair Wear subjects its member companies to a renewed external review of the Fair Wear communications provided and the underlying due diligence systems.
    Communication regarding Fair Wear membership may only be used in the form approved by Fair Wear if the relevant requirements have been met and the review has been successfully completed
    EDELRID has successfully completed this review and adapted its Fair Wear-related communications in accordance with Fair Wear’s requirements.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media whose content we can directly access and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes in particular our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are contents for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    These contents will be adapted as part of regular update or subsequent production cycles.

  • Claims in Product Names
    Explanation

    EDELRID has various product names and product designations that contain terms relating to environmental characteristics, performance, safety or quality.
    A significant proportion of these designations were introduced at a time when harmonised European requirements for environmental and sustainability claims within the meaning of EmpCo did not yet exist.
    The original purpose of these designations was to make technical characteristics, product innovations or environmental product characteristics considered relevant at the time visible to consumers and to provide better and more transparent guidance when making purchasing decisions. Furthermore, particularly in the case of environmentally related product names, the approach was intended to support sustainability-oriented customers in identifying corresponding product alternatives.

    Examples
    • ECO
    • ECO DRY
    • 1R / 2R / 3R
    • LIGHT / LITE / ULTRALITE
    • BULLETPROOF
    • SHIELD
    • MINI / MAX / EXTREME
    • SAFE
    • SMART
     Classification according to EmpCo 

    With the entry into force of the EmpCo requirements, the requirements governing the use of environmental, performance and quality claims towards consumers become more stringent.
    Terms such as “ECO” are regularly understood as general environmental claims and may therefore result in increased requirements regarding substantiation, transparency and consumer understanding.
    Performance and quality-related terms such as “Safe”, “Smart”, “Bulletproof”, “Extreme” or “Max” may also be understood as quality or performance claims and must therefore be critically assessed.

    Approach

    Product names are now deeply embedded in product master data, certifications, technical documentation, approval processes, IT systems, international sales structures and packaging. According to our internal assessment, renaming existing products comprehensively at short notice would have significant economic, organisational and resource-related implications.

    Against this background, EDELRID aims to transparently classify existing product names while adapting future product designations to the current regulatory requirements.

    Case A: Existing products with historical product names
    For existing products, designations relating to environmental characteristics, quality or performance will remain part of the product name. In these cases, we supplement product communications with transparent explanations of the meaning of the respective designation and the historical and technical background to its use, see for example the categories “ECO” or “1R, 2R, 3R”.
    The aim is to provide transparent context without misleading or generalised conclusions regarding the overall performance of a product.

    Case B: New products
    For newly developed products, we generally refrain from introducing new product names containing general environmental, sustainability, quality or safety claims unless we can ensure that the claim complies with EmpCo.
    Instead, we communicate specific and verifiable product characteristics directly in the product description.

    Special note for products with the designation “ECO DRY”
    In 2018, to the best of EDELRID’s knowledge, EDELRID became the first company to introduce a climbing rope with a water-repellent impregnation that did not use PFAS.
    As PFAS were increasingly viewed critically due to their environmental and persistence-related properties, this characteristic was considered a relevant environmental benefit compared with the PFAS-based impregnations commonly available on the market at the time.
    To make this product characteristic visible to consumers and to support sustainability-oriented customers in identifying corresponding product alternatives, EDELRID introduced the designation ECO DRY. Since then, “ECO DRY” has been used as an established and recognisable part of the corresponding rope product names.
    The designation was therefore originally introduced to identify a specific product characteristic, namely the PFAS-free impregnation, and not as a general claim regarding the product’s overall environmental performance.

    Special note for products with the designation “ECO”
    Likewise, to the best of its knowledge, EDELRID became the first company to introduce carabiners for which the anodising process widely used in the market was deliberately omitted.
    The decision was based on the intention to reduce the environmental impacts associated with this production step.
    To make this technical product characteristic visible to consumers, the designation ECO was introduced as an established part of the corresponding carabiner product names.
    In this context, the designation “ECO” refers to the omission of anodising and does not constitute a general claim regarding the product’s overall environmental performance.

    Implementation

    Existing product names will initially remain part of EDELRID’s international product and system landscape. Where necessary, explanatory information will be added to provide transparent and regulatory-compliant context regarding the meaning of the respective terms.

     
     
     
  • Use of Illustrations / Logos
    Erklärung 

    In addition to textual claims, EDELRID occasionally uses graphic elements and illustrations to make specific product characteristics quickly recognisable to consumers. Such illustrations visually support product information and are intended to facilitate orientation when selecting products. In particular, illustrations may symbolise material characteristics, manufacturing processes or specific product features.
    From a consumer perspective, however, they may have the same effect as textual environmental or sustainability claims and are therefore taken into account accordingly within the framework of the EmpCo requirements.

    Recycling Symbols

    3R / Recycled-Logo

    Climb Green - see also category "ClimbGreen"

    Upcycled-Logo

    Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, not only textual claims but also symbols, logos, icons and graphic representations may be understood as environmental or sustainability claims. In particular, illustrations may give consumers the impression that a product has better overall environmental performance, has been recycled or reused, has specific environmental benefits, or has undergone independent testing, certification or verification.
    Graphic representations must therefore also be transparent, traceable and substantiated by the underlying product information.

    Approach

    We use symbols, logos, icons and graphic representations that may be understood as environmental or sustainability claims only if the underlying characteristic can be specifically described and substantiated in a traceable manner. As a general rule, we refrain from using internal labels.

    Case A: The illustration could be understood as an officially recognised label

    If an illustration could be understood as an officially recognised label even though no certification by a designated external party is available, meaning that it is an “internal label”, we generally refrain from using it.

    Case B: The illustration describes a specific and verifiable product characteristic

    If an illustration visualises a specific product characteristic and the underlying claim can be substantiated, the illustration may be used provided that it cannot be understood as an officially recognised label. In such cases, we also explain the meaning of the representation using clear textual information.

    Case C: The illustration could be understood as an environmental or sustainability claim

    If an illustration suggests general environmental performance or an environmental benefit that is not further defined, it is only used if its specific meaning is clearly explained.

    Case D: No sufficient evidence is available

    If the claim conveyed by an illustration cannot be substantiated in a traceable manner, we refrain from using it.

    Approach for existing products 

    Illustrations that form part of an existing product, packaging or previously introduced communication material will be assessed and reviewed at the earliest possible opportunity, but no later than during the next product or development iteration, in accordance with the applicable requirements and handled according to the approach described in this glossary
    Until then, corresponding illustrations may, under certain circumstances, continue to appear on products, packaging and previously introduced communication materials.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media whose content we can directly access and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes in particular our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are contents for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    These contents will be adapted as part of regular update or subsequent production cycles.

  • External Labels
    Explanation

    External labels, certifications and verification systems are based on criteria whose compliance is assessed by an organisation independent of EDELRID. Unlike designations developed internally by a company, the requirements, testing procedures or validations are defined and assessed by external bodies.

    Examples:

    • bluesign®
    • EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme)
    • SBTi (Science Based Targets initiative)
    • Fair Wear Foundation
     Classification according to EmpCo 

    According to the requirements of EmpCo and the provisions of the UCPD, external certifications and labels may generally continue to be used provided that:

    • the certification is valid
    • the communication is accurate
    • the actual scope of the system’s claim is not exceeded
    • consumers can identify what was specifically assessed

    It must always be transparently stated whether the certification relates to the product or only to individual materials.

    Approach

    At EDELRID, external labels are communicated only within their actual scope. The meaning or scope of a label is neither extended nor transferred to other products, sites, processes or characteristics that were not subject to the respective assessment, certification or verification.

    Case A: A valid external label, certificate or verification is available

    Evidence and certifications may relate to different levels, for example a material, a product or a company. A certification at one level must not be communicated in a way that suggests that it automatically applies to the other levels. We therefore specify the level to which each claim applies.
    Examples:

    • Material level: “… made from GRS-certified recycled material”
    • Product level: “This product is certified as a bluesign® PRODUCT”
    • Company level: “EDELRID is a member of the Fair Wear Foundation”


    Case B: The label does not relate to the product level
    Many external systems do not assess individual products but, for example, company processes or management systems. In these cases, we communicate the claim exclusively at the level that was actually assessed and avoid transferring it to individual products.
    Example:
    “The EMAS registration relates to the company’s environmental management system.”

    Case C: The certification or verification has expired, been suspended or is no longer valid
    If the certification or verification is no longer valid, we refrain from further use of the label or associated claims until the relevant requirements are met again. Existing content is adapted as part of the regular update processes

    Case D: The label could be understood as a general environmental or sustainability claim
    Even when using external labels, we avoid claims that go beyond the actual meaning of the respective system. We do not derive general claims such as “sustainable”, “environmentally friendly” or “responsibly manufactured” from a certification, membership or validation unless such claims are explicitly covered by the assessed system and can be substantiated accordingly.
    Instead, we communicate the specific characteristic or subject matter that was assessed.

    Implementation 

    Updates will be made across all digital media whose content we can directly access and where changes can be implemented with reasonable effort. This includes in particular our websites, product detail pages, online catalogues and other digital information resources.
    Excluded are contents for which subsequent modification is only possible to a limited extent or would require disproportionate effort, for example:
    • product videos already published
    • social media posts already published
    • printed and already produced materials such as flyers, product packaging, catalogues or POS materials
    These contents will be adapted as part of regular update or subsequent production cycles.