Consumer Information Programme MAC Meeting sets focused direction for 2026: Biodiversity, Ecolabelling and More
The Consumer Information Programme on Sustainable Consumption and Production (CI-SCP) held its second Multistakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) meeting of 2025 on 27 November, bringing together representatives from governments, UN agencies, civil society, and research organisations to review progress and set priorities for the year ahead.
Held online, the meeting marked a transition point for the programme as the CI-SCP prepares to move toward a more focused, impact-driven approach in 2026. Biodiversity, ecolabelling, and digital product information systems were identified as key areas for future action.
Sharpening focus for greater impact
While the CI-SCP has expanded significantly in recent years, participants agreed that a more targeted way of working is needed to strengthen impact tracking and policy relevance, giving rise to the transition towards a more flexible, initiative-based model in 2026.
An open call for initiatives is being launched, inviting MAC members and programme partners to propose projects that contribute directly to the CI-SCP’s strategic priorities.
Biodiversity, ecolabelling, and digital product information
For the first time, the MAC meeting featured a dedicated thematic session, focusing on Biodiversity and Consumption. Discussions centred on Target 16 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to enable sustainable consumption choices. With the Convention on Biological Diversity COP17 scheduled for 2026, members shared plans to contribute to this milestone and highlighted the growing role of the CI-SCP in supporting implementation of this target.
Ecolabelling was also highlighted as an increasingly important policy tool, particularly in sustainable public procurement. The Global Ecolabelling Network presented recent developments showing how credible ecolabels are being integrated into government purchasing systems in several regions, helping combat greenwashing and translate sustainability goals into market demand. This reinforces the relevance of initiatives such as EcoAdvance and Retail4Impact, which support ambitious ecolabels and their use in sustainable public procurement, and improved product sustainability information based on the Guidelines for Providing Product Sustainability Information.
Digital Product Information Systems, including digital product passports, were discussed as key enablers of transparency. Following the launch of a global DPIS blueprint, work in 2026 will focus on developing global principles and drawing lessons from practical pilots, with particular attention to supporting emerging economies and avoiding trade barriers.
Looking ahead
The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration as the CI-SCP prepares its 2026 action plan, MAC renewal process, and the endorsement of refreshed initiatives. With global biodiversity and climate negotiations approaching, the importance of clearer priorities, stronger coordination, and consumer-focused solutions to advance sustainable consumption at scale are emphasized at the CI-SCP.
