What Retailers Need to Know About Bill C-59 and Greenwashing Laws in Canada
Sustainability isn’t just good business—it’s now the law. With the rise of eco-conscious consumers, businesses across Canada have been stepping up their climate commitments. But with Bill C-59, also known as the Anti-Greenwashing Bill, the government is making sure companies walk the talk when it comes to sustainability claims.
So, what does this mean for retailers? Let’s break it down.
What is Bill C-59?
Bill C-59 is Canada's latest move to crack down on greenwashing—the practice of making misleading environmental claims. This bill amends the Competition Act to give regulators the power to go after businesses that exaggerate or falsely advertise their sustainability efforts.
Key points of the bill:
Businesses must prove their environmental claims with real, verifiable data
General statements like “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” must be backed by credible evidence
Companies that violate these rules could face hefty fines and damage to their brand’s reputation
How Does This Impact Retailers?
As a retailer, you’re likely using sustainability messaging in some form—whether it’s about your materials, supply chain, or climate commitments. Here’s how Bill C-59 affects you:
You need proof: If you claim a product is “carbon neutral” or “made from recycled materials,” you must have scientific evidence, certifications, or third-party verification to back it up.
No more vague eco-statements: Terms like “green,” “environmentally friendly,” or “better for the planet” need clear explanations of how they’re measured and validated.
Transparency is key: Your sustainability efforts should be trackable and reportable, so customers (and regulators) can verify their legitimacy.
Supply chains matter: If your suppliers make environmental claims, you need to ensure they’re credible and verifiable before using them in marketing.
What Retailers Can Do Now
Bill C-59 isn’t just a compliance issue—it’s an opportunity to build trust and credibility with your customers. Here’s how you can prepare:
Audit Your Claims: Review your current sustainability messaging and make sure everything is backed by data, reports, and certifications.
Work with Trusted Partners: Ensure your supply chain and sustainability partners meet recognized environmental standards.
Educate Your Team: Make sure marketing, product development, and sales teams understand the new regulations to avoid accidental missteps.
Engage in Real Climate Action: Investing in tree planting and climate initiatives (like Cool Climate Club) can provide tangible proof of your sustainability efforts.
Embracing Authentic Climate Action
Retailers that embrace transparency and back up their sustainability claims won’t just comply with Bill C-59—they’ll win customer trust and stay ahead of the competition. The key takeaway? Be clear, be honest, and take real action.
If you’re looking for credible ways to integrate sustainability into your retail business, Cool Climate Club™ makes it easy to invest in real climate solutions—with trackable impact, data reporting tools, and zero greenwashing.
Want to learn more? Let’s talk 🌍
