The ACCC has launched an internet sweep to identify Australian companies making false environmental and sustainability claims.
At least 200 company websites will be reviewed in the sweep, across sectors including energy, vehicles, household products and appliances, food and drink packaging, cosmetics, clothing and footwear.
In addition, the ACCC will conduct another sweep targeting fake or misleading online reviews and testimonials posted to business’ websites, Facebook pages and third-party review platforms.
“As consumers become increasingly interested in purchasing sustainable products, there are growing concerns that some businesses are falsely promoting their environmental or green credentials. Misleading claims about products or services undermine consumer trust and confidence in the market,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.
“This sweep forms a core part of our work in actively monitoring for ‘greenwashing’ in the market and will help inform what steps businesses can take to improve the integrity of their environmental claims.”
Interestingly, Rickard said, in looking at claims, the ACCC are concerned “about what the ordinary consumer will understand the claim to mean.” This will no doubt put the fear of God in a lot of marketing teams.
“The ACCC won’t hesitate to take enforcement action where we see that consumers are being misled or deceived by green claims.”
The ACCC will publish the findings of the sweeps once they are collated and analysed.