How to Spot Greenwashing: Don’t Fall for Eco-Fluff
Have you ever found yourself squinting at a product label, wondering what on earth ‘biodegradable’ actually means? You’re not alone. With more and more companies realising that being ‘green’ sells, the market is awash with ‘greenwashing’: eco-claims, some legitimate, some, well… a little bit dodgy.
And there is nothing that gets my goat more than people making outlandish claims or, more importantly, confusing us poor consumers.
The problem is that so many different terms are bandied around that it is hard for us to know what they all mean. Here’s my guide to help you make more informed choices, and of course, if you are in any doubt, not only am I here to help you decipher the good from the bull, but I can even put together a basket of goodies for you to try.
1. Beware of Vague Buzzwords
‘Natural,’ ‘eco-friendly,’ ‘green,’ ‘sustainable’… these words sound fantastic, don’t they? Unfortunately, they’re also often meaningless unless backed up with specifics. If a company can’t explain how its product is environmentally friendly, there’s a good chance it’s stretching the truth.
2. Check for Third-Party Certifications
Labels like Fair Trade, Soil Association Organic, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), or B Corp actually mean something. They indicate that an independent body has checked that the company isn’t just saying they’re ethical but is walking the talk.
3. Look at the Whole Picture
A product might be packaged in a ‘100% recyclable’ box, but if what’s inside is full of plastic, palm oil, and chemicals that belong in a science lab rather than your home, then the company is cherry-picking the green bits and ignoring the rest. Sustainability isn’t just about packaging, it’s about the entire supply chain.
4. Watch Out for the ‘Lesser Evil’ Trick
Just because something is less harmful doesn’t mean it’s good. For example, a disposable coffee cup made with 20% less plastic is still, well… a disposable coffee cup. If a brand promotes its tiny eco-win while conveniently ignoring its more significant environmental impact, take its claims with a pinch of salt.
5. Do a Quick Google Search
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. A quick online search with the brand name followed by ‘greenwashing’ can sometimes reveal past scandals, dodgy practices, or a very angry environmentalist calling them out on their nonsense. (After all, ethics still matter.)
6. Follow the Money
Who owns the company? Sometimes, the ‘eco’ brand you love is a tiny offshoot of a much larger corporation that’s not exactly known for its green credentials. If a brand’s parent company is a major polluter, consider whether their ‘green’ arm is more about PR than a genuine commitment to sustainability.
Final Thought: A Bit of Common Sense Goes a Long Way
If a brand is really sustainable, they’ll want to talk about it in detail. They’ll have facts, figures, and data to back up their claims. If they’re just slapping a green leaf on their logo and hoping for the best, it’s worth digging a little deeper.
At Any Green Will Do, we believe in transparency, genuine eco-friendly products and helping people make truly sustainable choices—without the waffle. No vague claims, no sneaky greenwashing, just honest, practical solutions for a greener life.
So, next time you’re faced with a product that sounds too green to be true, take a moment. Check the label, do a little research, and ensure your eco-friendly efforts are making a difference. Because real change starts with informed choices—and maybe just a little bit of healthy scepticism.
After all, we don’t want your great intentions to come to nothing. I hope this has helped. Please reach out if you have any questions, and I will try my best to guide you through the eco jargon.