IPHour: GREENWASHING

Conscious consumerism is a powerful trend where consumers take into account, ethical, social and environmental values before committing to purchases.

Per a PwC report, close to 50% of the world population chose sustainable products in 2021. Given the enormous business implications of conscious consumption, brands are increasingly emphasising the green side of their products through the use of marketing campaigns and eco-labels. Greenbranding, however, can morph into greenwashing when false or misleading or unsubstantiated claims about environmental friendliness of a product or service or practices are made – and another survey suggests that 40% of the brands make false claims.

Remfry & Sagar, in association with Pavia e Ansaldo (Italy) and Schroder Brooks Law Firm PLC (USA) organised a panel discussion on this topical issue titled: ‘GREENWASHING – Scrutinising Eco-friendly Imagery, Labels & Claims’.

Radha Khera (Managing Associate at Remfry & Sagar) moderated the discussion with Partner Joan Davis at Schroder Brooks and Partner Gabrielle Girardello and Senior associate Rosaria Maria Raspanti at Pavia e Ansaldo. Cyril Abrol, Partner (Corporate – Commercial) at Remfry & Sagar, shared the Indian perspective on misleading claims and false branding.

It was a most absorbing discussion with a multi-jurisdictional flavour.