Greenwashing - what it is and what to look out for

Marketing and advertising can often trick us into thinking we are buying something that we’re not. You may believe that you're purchasing a clean product, but always read the labels! Do not be fooled by clever marketing or green packaging. Many of the products advertised as clean contain the same chemicals as any other product but at a higher price tag. We call this greenwashing.

What is greenwashing?

Greenwashing is when a brand or company claims to be green and natural through advertising and marketing but isn't implementing practices that minimize their environmental impact.

What to look out for...

• When a label uses vague terms like eco-friendly, clean, green, or all-natural, this might be a sign of greenwashing. Read the ingredients and look out for approved labels like USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project, or Fair-Trade Certified.

• Another sign of greenwashing is when a company is attached to a parent company. Many companies capitalize on the demand for cleaner products. They create smaller companies and market their products differently to appeal to consumers wanting a cleaner, safer option.

You know you have found a clean product when you trust the ingredients and when the company spells out the differences in their products from their competitors.

Don’t let brands fool you when you are aiming for a more natural lifestyle. When it comes to the products you use and how you spend your money, make sure you're making an educated decision!