Greenwashing has become more prevalent in American media in recent years. This marketing tactic aims to deceptively persuade potential customers to be more inclined to their product based on the notion their product actively improves the earth. This practice aims to represent their positive impact on the environment as well beyond their actual contributions. But this practice isn't a new thing and has been going on for more than 50 years.
One technique of greenwashing is making unverified claims. An example of this could be a business claiming their product helps save wildlife without supplying sufficient evidence. This manipulates consumers to have a liking for a product because of a claim that may not be true.
Another way companies manipulate buyers is by associating specific colors and phrases with an eco-friendly product. An example of this could be companies using green labeling with trees and mountains. Although companies may not have an intent on tricking buyers, consumers associate green and nature like packaging with being eco friendly.
Businesses may also be not revealing hidden trade offs of a product. If a brand claims their products are made up of 15% recycled materials, it makes customers feel like they are positively contributing to keeping a product's life longer. Although this may be true, companies may hide that this practice increases their carbon emission and makes the price of the product to produce lower.
Overall, it's important to think through the products you may come across. There are many reliable ways to ensure that a company is truthful and to fall for the manipulation the companies are trying to portray.