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The Common Claims Checklist
The 12 green words Australian businesses put on their websites — and exactly what you need to back each one up. 4 of them are best avoided altogether.
- 12 words, one verdict each. Eco-friendly, sustainable, carbon neutral, recyclable, compostable, plastic-free and more — each marked best avoided, qualify it, or usable with proof.
- The evidence you'd need. For every word, what you'd have to be able to show if a customer — or the ACCC — asked you to back it up.
- A safer way to say it. A rewrite you can copy for each claim, plus a five-point check to run before you publish anything.
4-page PDF · based on ACCC guidance · free
What's inside
Eco-friendlyBest avoided
SustainableBest avoided
Carbon neutralOnly with proof
RecyclableOnly if you qualify it
Compostable / biodegradableOnly if you qualify it
Plastic-freeOnly with proof
Natural / all naturalBest avoided
Green / greenerBest avoided
Ethically made / responsibly sourcedOnly with proof
Net zero by 2030 (or any future promise)Only with proof
Certified / eco symbols and leaf logosOnly with proof
Ocean-bound plastic / carbon offset jargonOnly if you qualify it
Every verdict is based on the ACCC's guidance for business on making environmental claims (December 2023) and the misleading conduct provisions of the Australian Consumer Law. It's professional guidance to help you write more carefully — not legal advice, and it does not certify compliance. Sprout Check is not affiliated with the ACCC, ASIC or any regulator.
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