Greenwashing is a term that refers to a specific tendency or strategy of companies to market their products as more environmentally-friendly than the good or service actually is so that the company can derive the positive socio-economic benefits from being seen as “green”.  Examples include companies using vague labeling such as “natural” or “better for the planet” that have no quantifiable benefit for the environment, using green colored packaging, and funding sustainability initiatives despite having unsustainable business packages. The worst part of greenwashing? It works. Think about all the companies you support that use green marketing to promote their products. Did it influence your choice to buy their product?  I know greenwashing has convinced me to choose one product over another. Are you really sure that company is committed to sustainability? Or are they just putting on a show?

Watch this video from Green Events below to get an in-depth introduction to greenwashing!

Keep reading below to learn more about greenwashing, how to spot it, and how to switch your consumer habits so that you are supporting truly sustainable companies. 

Resources

  1. What Is Greenwashing and How to Spot It and Stop It
  2. Bioplastics: If you watched the video above and are curious to understand the system of bioplastics and biodegradable products, read below!
    • The Truth about Bioplastics
      • This is a blog from Columbia University’s Earth Institute. The blog writer credits many studies to support its argument. The blog includes a holistic perspective on bioplastics that discusses its drawbacks but also different positive impacts it could have.
    • Consumer Confusion with Bioplastics
  3. Corporate Examples of Greenwashing
  4. Podcasts:
    • Greenwashing Culture 
    • Eco chic Episode 93: What is Greenwashing? How to Spot Misleading Environmental Claims 
      • listen on Spotify or Apple podcasts for just 9 minutes!