Truth in Green Advertising Program

The Truth in Green Advertising Program monitors language used in the labeling and advertising of consumer products to ensure the validity of their claims regarding biodegradability and other environmental standards.

Because there is no scientifically-based system to verify claims of biodegradability, California law does not allow the use of the term biodegradable on most consumer products. With less stringent standards in national and international markets, many products are sold in California that violate this law.

When the Program’s monitoring efforts discover a violation of state law, it works closely with the state attorney general’s office or local district attorneys to investigate whether prosecution or settlement is necessary.