Protecting Sustainable Outdoor Products with Class 22 Trademark Registration
Introduction
Eco-friendly products are not just a trend anymore—they are becoming a necessity. With increasing awareness about climate change, plastic pollution, and the need for sustainability, outdoor gear brands are turning towards eco-friendly ropes, tents, tarpaulins, and nets. Whether you are manufacturing biodegradable ropes, recycled tarpaulin covers, or eco-conscious camping tents, your brand deserves legal protection to stand strong in the marketplace.
This is where Trademark Class 22 comes into play.
Class 22 of the Nice Classification (NCL) system covers products like ropes, nets, tents, sacks, bags, tarpaulins, awnings, sails, and padding materials. If you deal in eco-friendly outdoor products, filing a trademark in this class ensures that no one can misuse or copy your brand identity.
In this guide, we will explain:
- What is Trademark Class 22?
- Why eco-friendly outdoor brands need it.
- The step-by-step process to register your trademark.
- Common mistakes to avoid.
- Benefits of protecting your brand under Class 22.
What Is Trademark Class 22?
Trademark Class 22 is part of the international trademark classification system, which organizes goods and services into categories.
Products under Class 22 include:
- Ropes, string, cords (including eco-friendly or biodegradable ropes).
- Nets (fishing nets, safety nets, garden nets).
- Tents, tarpaulins, awnings, and canopies.
- Sacks and bags (not included in other classes).
- Padding and stuffing materials (except rubber or plastic).
- Textile fibers and raw fibrous textile materials.
If your company deals with eco-friendly alternatives—for example, hemp ropes, biodegradable tarpaulins, or recycled fiber tents—Class 22 is where you need to protect your trademark.
Why Eco-Friendly Outdoor Brands Should File in Class 22
Let’s understand why filing a trademark in Class 22 is crucial for eco-conscious outdoor gear brands:
1. Protection Against Copycats
Eco-friendly products are booming. Many businesses try to cash in on the “green” trend by copying existing successful brand names. Trademark protection ensures that no competitor can sell similar products under your name.
2. Market Differentiation
In a competitive outdoor gear industry, a strong brand identity sets you apart. Your trademark becomes a symbol of trust for eco-conscious consumers who actively seek sustainable options.
3. Consumer Trust
Consumers are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products. A registered trademark strengthens credibility and makes customers confident that your products are authentic and reliable.
4. Business Expansion
A trademark in Class 22 can be a valuable asset when you expand your product line—such as launching new eco-friendly tents or biodegradable packaging bags.
5. Legal Right to Take Action
Without a trademark, it becomes extremely difficult to fight against counterfeiters or unauthorized use of your brand. Registration gives you legal authority to act against infringement.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Trademark for Eco-Friendly Outdoor Products
Here’s how you can protect your eco-friendly brand under Class 22:
Step 1: Trademark Search
- Conduct a comprehensive trademark search to check if your desired brand name or logo is available.
- Search through the IP India trademark database or consult a professional to avoid future objections.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Class
- Select Class 22 for ropes, nets, tents, tarpaulins, sacks, bags, etc.
- If your eco-friendly business also deals in outdoor clothing, accessories, or furniture, you may need to file in multiple classes.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
- Identity proof of the applicant (Aadhar, PAN, Passport).
- Proof of business (partnership deed, incorporation certificate, GST details).
- Brand logo (if applicable).
- List of goods (eco-friendly ropes, biodegradable tarpaulins, camping tents, etc.).
Step 4: File the Application
- Apply online through the IP India portal or through a trademark attorney.
- Pay the filing fee:
- ₹4,500 for individuals/startups.
- ₹9,000 for companies.
Step 5: Examination by the Trademark Office
- The Registrar examines your application for conflicts, uniqueness, and compliance.
- You may receive an Examination Report with objections, if any.
Step 6: Publication in the Trademark Journal
- If accepted, your trademark is published in the Journal.
- The public has 4 months to raise any opposition.
Step 7: Trademark Registration
- If no opposition is raised, you receive the Trademark Registration Certificate.
- Your brand is now legally protected under Class 22 for 10 years (renewable).
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filing in Class 22
Even eco-friendly businesses sometimes face rejection due to small errors. Avoid these mistakes:
❌ Using Generic Terms
Names like “Eco Rope” or “Green Tent” may be rejected because they are too descriptive. Choose a unique and creative brand name.
❌ Incorrect Class Selection
Filing under the wrong class means no legal protection. Always check whether your product falls under Class 22 or another class.
❌ Skipping the Trademark Search
Not checking existing trademarks may result in objections and delays.
❌ Poor Documentation
Incomplete documents or mismatched details can lead to rejection.
❌ Not Taking Professional Help
Trademark filing involves technical details. Without legal guidance, your application may face unnecessary hurdles.
Real-Life Example: Eco-Friendly Tents Brand
Imagine a company called EcoCamp India, producing biodegradable camping tents made from recycled fabrics.
- If EcoCamp India registers under Class 22, no competitor can sell tents with a confusingly similar name.
- The brand gains trust among eco-conscious travelers.
- Later, if they expand into eco-friendly sleeping bags or ropes, their trademark continues to give them market strength.
Without a trademark, counterfeit products may enter the market, damaging brand reputation.
Benefits of Trademarking Eco-Friendly Products in Class 22
- Exclusivity: You alone have the right to use your brand name/logo.
- Customer Loyalty: Builds trust in sustainable products.
- Global Expansion: Helpful if you plan to register internationally.
- Licensing Opportunities: You can license your brand to others.
- Long-Term Protection: Valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely.
Tips for Choosing a Strong Eco-Friendly Brand Name
- Keep it unique and memorable.
- Avoid names that directly describe the product (e.g., “Green Rope”).
- Add creative elements (e.g., “HempHaven,” “EcoTrek,” “NatureNest”).
- Ensure the name resonates with sustainability and outdoor adventure.
Conclusion
The eco-friendly outdoor products industry is growing rapidly, and so is the competition. If you manufacture or sell eco-friendly ropes, tarpaulins, nets, sacks, or tents, protecting your brand with a Trademark in Class 22 is not just an option—it’s a necessity.
It gives you the legal right to stop others from copying your name, boosts consumer trust, and adds long-term value to your business. With the right trademark strategy, your eco-friendly brand can grow stronger, attract loyal customers, and expand globally.
Call to Action
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark filing, objections, renewals, and legal protection for businesses across India. Whether you are launching a new eco-friendly tent brand or selling biodegradable ropes, we ensure your brand gets complete protection under Class 22.
👉 Contact VMK Professionals today to secure your brand and protect your eco-friendly outdoor products from infringement.
