The future of carbon labeling – Factors to consider

Abstract Compared to other policy instruments that aim change consumer behavior, information provision is perhaps the least controversial. An important question how in form of carbon labels can contribute direct food consumption toward reduced climate impact. From a guidance perspective, there need identify labeling strategy affects consumers’ ability lower emitting products and behavioral due information. Key aspects label are discussed, as well implications different schemes. Drawing on economic theories, we propose that, assist consumers identifying changes significant reductions their impact, must enable comparisons between product groups not only within narrowly defined groups. This suggests mandatory labeling, since producers high-emission less likely display such labels. However, it consider both costs benefits schemes complementing with instruments.