What is Greenwashing?
Greenwashing refers to the practice of companies presenting their products or services as more environmentally friendly than they actually are—whether intentionally or unintentionally. This is often done by spreading misleading, incomplete, or false information (cf. Holden Galusha, 2025).
How can you identify and avoid greenwashing?
👉 Article on LabManager: Avoiding Greenwashing – A Guide for Sustainable Lab Purchases
1. Vague or Misleading Claims
- Products are labeled as “eco-friendly” without credible evidence or data.
- Sustainability claims are not quantified or are based only on internal estimates.
- Statements sound positive but do not stand up to comparison with industry standards.
2. Missing Certifications
- Recognized sustainability certifications are absent.
- Companies use their own “certificates” or logos without independent verification.
➡️ Only third-party certifications, such as the ACT Label or Blue Angel, offer credible guidance.
3. Lack of Transparency
- No clear information about sourcing, production, or recycling of materials.
- Missing case studies or evidence showing how the product actually supports more sustainable lab practices.
✅ Checklist: How to Identify and Avoid Greenwashing
✅ 1. Scrutinize Claims
- Claims are specific, quantified, and verifiable (e.g., “Saves 40% energy”).
- There are data, evidence, or case studies on environmental impact.
- Claims are contextualized within the industry average.
- No exaggerated promises like “100% green” without proof.
✅ 2. Certifications & Evidence
- Recognized third-party certifications are present (e.g., ACT Label, Blue Angel).
- No self-issued certifications without external validation.
- Certifications are valid, transparent, and publicly accessible.
✅ 3. Transparency & Openness
- Published reports, whitepapers, or sustainability goals are available.
- CO₂ emissions (Scope 1–3) are openly communicated.
- Inquiries are answered clearly and reliably.
✅ 4. Life Cycle & Comparisons
- A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has been conducted.
- The product is presented as truly sustainable, not just “better than X.”
✅ 5. Visual & Language Clarity
- No misleading use of nature imagery, symbols, or colors.
- Green design alone is not used as proof of sustainability.
✅ 6. Ask Questions & Seek Recommendations
- Direct communication with sales or sustainability representatives.
- Endorsements from trusted sustainability networks, e.g., My Green Lab.