Greenwashing: Companies Not as Sustainable as They Claim

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In recent years, the issue of environmental sustainability has become increasingly important to consumers. As a result, many companies are eager to showcase their eco-friendliness through marketing campaigns and product labeling. However, not all of these claims are genuine as some companies engage in “greenwashing,” which involves exaggerating or misleading consumers about their environmental efforts.

Watch the video to explore the concept of greenwashing.

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does the word “transparent” mean? “Critics said that carbon offset goals are weak and companies aren’t transparent with consumers about how they’ll achieve them.” Use the word in a sentence.
2. What is “carbon footprint“? “Investors want to invest in companies that have lower carbon footprint.” Make one sentence using this concept.
3. What does the phrase “to fall short of” mean? “Companies can fall short of their eco-friendly promises.” Use the expression in one sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you think about “greenwashing”? Why do some companies engage in it?
2. Does your company highlight and promote eco-friendly campaigns and product labeling ? If so, what do you think about it?
3. As a consumer, how important is sustainability when choosing a product?
4. What are the potential consequences of “greenwashing” for both consumers and the environment?