Senate establishes inquiry into greenwashing

Following encouragement from The Greens, the Senate has agreed to establish an inquiry into greenwashing by corporations in Australia. The inquiry will investigate the impacts of greenwashing on consumers and the environment while identifying the legal and regulatory actions needed to stop it.

The inquiry will be overseen by Senator Sarah Hanson-Young as Chair of the Environment and Communications References Committee.

As Greens Environment Spokesperson, Hanson-Young said that recent ACCC figures have shown that many brands make false green claims to better their image. She labelled corporate greenwashing as “out of control”.

“Whether it’s the clothing on our backs or the food and drink we consume, everyday Australians are confronted with false environmental claims everywhere,” she said. “It should be illegal to greenwash. We need laws that protect consumers from greenwashing and that hold companies to account.”

Hanson-Young labelled the inquiry a “first step” in solving the greenwashing issue and helping to protect the environment.

Image credit: iStock.com/Tanaonte