In the ever-evolving landscape of consumer protection, 2024 promises to be a year of heightened scrutiny and relentless pursuit of deceptive practices. From deceptive endorsements to the labyrinth of environmental advertising, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is gearing up for a tumultuous year ahead.
Consumer Protection Issues To Watch In 2024: Navigating the Environmental Maze
The FTC, known for its assertive stance in safeguarding consumer interests, is set to finalize the long-awaited revision of its Green Guides. These guides, born in 1992, serve as a compass for environmental marketing claims. With a surge in consumer reliance on eco-friendly claims, the FTC aims to establish clear standards for carbon offsets, recyclability, sustainability, energy efficiency, and climate change narratives.
Lesli Esposito, head of the consumer protection practice at McDermott Will & Emery LLP, foresees a pivotal year. “Companies will have to be mindful of the environmental claims they’re making and ensure they meet any revised standards the FTC releases.”
Endorsements Under the Magnifying Glass: The Influencer Dilemma
Endorsements and testimonials, especially in the digital realm, continue to captivate consumers. The FTC, having finalized updated Guides for Endorsements and Testimonials in June, is aggressively combating fake reviews, negative review suppression, and the murky world of paid endorsements.
