Greenwashing

Last updated 2 January 2025

What is greenwashing?

Greenwashing is the practice of a company making itself, its products or services appear more environmentally friendly, sustainable or ethical than they are.

For instance, a company may claim that its products create less carbon emissions than they actually do. This could result in financial and reputational benefits, even if the company is not reducing its emissions.

Why monitoring greenwashing is important

We are working towards a future with net zero carbon emissions. An increasing number of people are choosing products and companies that contribute to this goal. It is therefore important to ensure that what companies say about reducing carbon emissions or the carbon intensity of their products and services is accurate.

We collaborate closely with other regulators to facilitate their potential regulatory action. We share information, such as carbon emissions and energy use data, to assist them in assessing potential greenwashing claims.

Regulatory support

Approach to scheme compliance

We take a risk-based approach to compliance.

Enforceable undertakings

Our agreements with scheme participants facilitate improved compliance and the resolution of non-compliance issues.

Prosecute

We investigate instances of non-compliance and have the authority to prosecute any breaches.

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