Greenwashing

Greenwashing is a technique used by companies that consist of presenting ecological arguments to falsify an eco-responsible image to the public when in reality, the truth is distorted and falsified to encourage customers to buy or rent a certain product.

Companies will use this technique to convey a false impression of the environmental consequences of a product. It is used to deceive customers into thinking a product is eco-friendly, greatly influencing their decision on whether or not they will purchase said product.

In 2008, the Competition Bureau of Canada published guidelines for environmental claims in advertisements. It is now illegal, however, some companies still find ways to falsify the information provided to the public. That is why we must be careful about our purchases.

Here are some ways to spot and avoid companies that use greenwashing as a way to make more profit :

•Look for certification

•Look for irrelevant claims

•Lookout for aesthetically-pleasing traps. Some companies use filters or alter the landscape that they use to promote their “eco-friendly” products such as the Fiji water brand. Their commercials often feature a natural landscape with a child’s voice saying “Fiji water is a nature’s gift to us, bottled at the source and untouched by men.” They cannot substantiate their claims.

•Beware of the common greenwashing words such as :

-'It's what the public/our customers are telling us they want. '

-'No nasty chemicals'

-’Natural’ Natural does not mean environmentally friendly.

-etc

However, not all companies that use these words are greenwashing.

Greenwashing impacts the well-being of the environment and brands that actually are eco-friendly.