What Are Greenwashed Products?
Greenwashing is a term used to describe products or services marketed as environmentally friendly, even though they may not be. These products often contain harmful chemicals, have unsustainable manufacturing processes, and do not offer any real environmental benefits. Greenwashing has become a significant concern for consumers looking to make more eco-friendly choices in their daily lives. As a team dedicated to creating a better world for future generations, we, at Change Plastic for Good, believe in educating consumers about greenwashing. That is why we have put together some information to outline what greenwashed products are.
Learn more important facts about greenwashing.
How To Avoid It
Consumers need to be aware of greenwashing to make informed decisions about the products they buy.
1. Vague Or Misleading Environmental Claims
Check for vague or misleading environmental claims on the packaging. Terms like “natural,” “eco-friendly,” and “sustainable” may sound good, but without specific details about how the product was made or what materials were used, these terms do not mean much. Additionally, some products may advertise themselves as being free of certain chemicals when they have already been banned by law and cannot be used in the product. This type of advertising creates a false impression that the product is safer or more environmentally friendly than it is.
2. Environmental Imagery
Look for environmental imagery, such as images of leaves, animals, or green packaging, which can create an association with environmentalism without providing information about the product’s environmental impact. It is important to read beyond the surface and check if the company has any certifications or transparent labelling that backs up its claims.
3. Certifications and Seals of Approval
Look for third-party certifications and seals of approval on the product packaging. These certifications indicate that the product has met specific environmental standards and has been verified by an independent organization.
4. Ingredients List
To spot greenwashing, look at the ingredients list. The ingredients list will tell you what the product includes, so you can decide whether or not it is eco-friendly. Look for products with simple ingredient lists of recognizable and natural components such as essential oils and plant-based extracts. If a product contains toxic chemicals or non-renewable resources, it cannot indeed be considered environmentally friendly.
5. Lack of Transparency or Information
Many businesses may need to provide clear and detailed information about their manufacturing processes, sourcing practices, or ingredient lists. This can make it nearly impossible for consumers to assess whether a product meets their sustainability standards, leaving them vulnerable to being duped by greenwashing claims.
To learn more about greenwashing and to protect yourself from misleading marketing tactics, look no further than the Change Plastic for Good team. Reach out to us through our online contact form. Our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with valuable resources on how to spot greenwashing in everyday life.
