Beware of False Green Claims

Greenwashing is when a company or organization spends more time and money marketing themselves as environmentally friendly than on actually minimizing their environmental impact. It's deceptive marketing used to mislead consumers.

Common Tactics:

• Vague Claims: Using terms like "eco-friendly," "natural," or "green" without specific evidence.
• Irrelevant Claims: Highlighting one small green attribute while ignoring significant negative impacts elsewhere.
• Hidden Trade-offs: Suggesting a product is green based on one narrow aspect, while ignoring a more harmful trade-off (e.g., energy-efficient electronics made in sweatshops).
• No Proof: Making environmental claims that aren't backed by easily accessible evidence or third-party certification.
• Fibbing: Making outright false claims.
• Misleading Imagery: Using nature imagery (leaves, green colours) to imply eco-friendliness without justification.

Look for specific details, certifications (like B Corp, Fair Trade, Energy Star), transparency, and avoid vague buzzwords.