How to Avoid Greenwashing to Live Sustainably
By Jane Crystal Pangilinan
A person’s shopping list can reveal their set of priorities. Shopping can look like buying only this week’s food or indulging in spontaneous self-care. The catch is that with each purchase there is an effect on the environment. Companies rely on profit so they cater to these consumer wants and needs.
When eco-friendly items became a rising star in popular trends, businesses created what is known as greenwashing. Greenwashing is the act of seeming environmentally friendly to attract business when the reality is not so simple. Here is a simplified guide on how to spot greenwashing so that you can live more sustainably.
Step One: Be Intentional
By having the intent to shop with less of a negative impact, you are one step closer than most. Use this awareness to create better shopping habits and patterns. This can look like shopping less or boycotting specific materials like PVC and synthetic plastics or companies. Living sustainably starts with the decision to act on it.
Step Two: Read the label
Similar to checking the ingredients if you are vegan, reading the label provides insight on what is genuinely eco-friendly. Currently, there is no standard for what defines environmental marketing so companies have the flexibility to make false claims. Often companies will use key phrases to catch your attention. Look for certifications that verify and choose them over buzzword claims like “all-natural”. For more information check out some myth-busting with the Eco Well Blog.
Step Three: Know the 7 Sins of Greenwashing
The sins of greenwashing highlight when a company is deflecting instead of being truly sustainable. These involve hidden trade-offs, having no proof, being vague or irrelevant, only being the lesser of two evils, outright fibbing, and worshipping false labels.
For more information, take home a printable fact sheet like this one.
Step Four: Think Critically
Asking questions can reveal valuable information. Greenwashing hides true intentions and practices. An example question to think about is “Are these natural/artificial ingredients sourced sustainably?” If not, then the company is not as eco-friendly as they led you to believe. Know when to do research wherever possible.
Step Five: Avoid Items Within Your Capability
It is important to strive to live sustainability. It is just as important to provide for your needs and necessities. If you have a tight budget, work within it by seeking out what is reusable and sustainable but doable. It is important to note that stretching yourself thin to meet something expensive out of your price range is not sustainable to your life. Though greenwashing exists, you can still be mindful while prioritizing your budget and yourself.
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