The labeling of cars by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) as “ecological” has become a contested issue. Critics, including consumers and environmental groups, say the current system misleads the public by rewarding devices and technologies that may not protect the environment as cleanly as expected. The paradox is striking: vehicles known to pollute less often receive weaker labels than those with higher emissions, creating confusion about what each badge actually represents.
The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) has recently highlighted that some cars with no Eco or Zero Emissions badge still pollute less than others that boast a green label. OCU notes that the labeling focuses on technology rather than actual emissions, which can distort the real environmental impact of a vehicle.
In this context, the current badge system is seen as unfair by many. High‑power non-plug-in hybrids can emit more than some low‑power gasoline cars, and large displacement plug-in hybrids may pollute more once their batteries are depleted after roughly forty kilometers. Yet these vehicles can carry a green label, which seems inconsistent with their real environmental footprint.
OCU argues that the labeling scheme should be revised so that the classification reflects the actual environmental impact of each vehicle, not just the technology it uses. The goal, as framed by the organization, is to classify vehicles according to their true emissions and ecological effect.
Recent activity by Greenpeace drew attention to the issue when activists unfurled a banner shaped like an eco‑label at a major automotive facility in Villaverde (Madrid). They criticized the environmental labels as not fully trustworthy in terms of pollution control.
Environmental organizations, including ECO tongo, have argued that DGT labels are subject to greenwashing. They warn that certain models, such as gas or microhybrids, may gain free access to Low Emission Zones and other benefits under the current labeling scheme, even though their environmental performance may be limited.
Greenpeace and other groups call on the government to reform the labeling system. They urge that the criteria include clear indicators of actual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and overall ecological impact, a reform promised in 2020 but not yet implemented.
Gas is not ecological
The present labeling system can act as a filter for technologies that the industry calls natural gas or disguises as green. Vehicles powered by liquid or compressed gas can still receive the DGT ECO label, granting access to various financial and regulatory advantages.
Health scientists warn that gas‑powered vehicles release substantial pollutants and particles, contributing to climate challenges in much the same way as diesel or petrol cars. The NGO view is that the label framework prioritizes industry interests over public health and environmental protection.
When the government signaled a reform of DGT labels in 2020, several organizations proposed an overhaul that would treat carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions as a core criterion for environmental classification. Yet the reform was blocked, with officials arguing that stakeholder consensus with manufacturers would be necessary before changes could be adopted.
“DGT has endured the industry”
Adrián Fernández of Greenpeace Mobility Campaign warned that the agency had yielded to industry interests, allowing polluting vehicles to be labeled as ZERO or ECO when they did not meet those standards. Francisco del Pozo, Greenpeace’s fossil fuel campaign coordinator, said DGT had effectively become a publicity vehicle for the motor industry, using labels as a step in a broader process that masks pollution.
Following studies by Harvard University on greenwashing and messaging related to climate topics, a European Citizens’ Initiative was launched by Greenpeace and partners to push for tighter rules. The aim is to curb fossil fuel advertising and sponsorship within the European Union.
What does each badge signify at present? The 0 emission label, or Blue, identifies the most efficient tools such as battery electric vehicles, extended range electric vehicles, 40 km range plug‑in hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles.
Next, the eco-label sits on the efficiency ladder and covers many hybrids and gas options. Plug‑in vehicles with under 40 km of range, non‑plug‑in hybrids, natural gas or LPG vehicles may qualify for this label, provided they meet the criteria of the C‑label.
Label C, Green, applies to internal combustion vehicles meeting the latest EURO emissions standards. From January 2006 for passenger cars and light petrol pickups, and from September 2015 for diesel cars, Label C has set a high bar, while larger families of vehicles have specific cutoffs when they were introduced.
Label B, Yellow, covers internal combustion vehicles that align with older standards rather than the newest EURO emissions. Vehicles registered from January 1, 2001, for passenger cars and light petrol pickups, and diesel vehicles from 2006, fall into this category.
Finally, vehicles that fall outside these categories or do not meet the clean‑vehicle criteria may not qualify for any badge, depending on their environmental impact.
The dialogue around labeling remains crucial as governments seek a fairer, more transparent system that truly reflects environmental performance rather than relying solely on technology choices.
Environment department contact address: [redacted]