a Few Examples of Major Corporations Accused of Greenwashing

H&M Clothing Stores

Allegation: Advertised its ingredients “come from nature” and were obtained via “responsible sourcing methods,” when harmful chemicals were actually utilized.

Coca-Cola Company

Allegation: Markets itself as “sustainable” and “environmentally-friendly” while generating more plastic pollution than any other company in the world.

Dasani/Poland Spring

Allegation: Marketed its plastic water bottles as “100% recyclable,” however, the caps and labels aren’t recyclable.

Ecos

Allegation: Marketed their products as non-toxic/safe/earth-friendly. They contained chemicals harmful to people and pets.

Source: Truthinadvertising.org

So, next time if you don't really want to go paperless, click "No" when a company asks you, and don't be afraid to print out those emails. Paper is not bad for the environment. We need your help to support the sustainably managed North American paper, print and mailing industry, and to stop greedy corporations from trying to add more to their bottom lines by deceiving the public.

Consequences

1. Greenwashing misleads well-meaning consumers into making what they believe are environmentally responsible purchases.

2. It undermines companies that participate in actual sustainability efforts. It also makes it harder for consumers to distinguish between real and false claims.

Allegation: Misled consumers with claims their products had environmental attributes.

Method Household Cleaning Products

Allegation: Claimed their products were non-toxic, however, they contained chemicals harmful to people and pets.

Rei

Allegation: The outdoor clothing and gear retailer marketed waterproof clothing as sustainable when the items contained substances harmful to the environment.

Whole Foods

Allegation: The company says it is committed to environmental sustainability and stewardship, but it's "slack-filled" packages use more raw materials and produce more waste when packages are thrown away.

3. Resources (water, energy, materials) are wasted and contribute to pollution as well as a higher carbon footprint, because companies produce products not as environmentally friendly as claimed.

4. Depending how misleading the greenwashing claims are, there can be legal consequences from the government’s Federal Trade Commission.

5. The company’s reputation can take a hit, negating all the financial gains executives thought greenwashing would bring them.

If you suspect a company may be attempting to greenwash the public, don’t just blindly follow its advice.

Do your research, and make an educated decision. You may be surprised to discover the grass really is greener on the other side. WGW