Greenwashing is a term used to describe a marketing strategy where companies portray themselves as environmentally friendly or sustainable, but their practices do not align with their claims.
In the beauty industry, greenwashing has become a growing concern as consumers increasingly seek out eco-friendly and sustainable products. However, not all companies are transparent about their sustainability efforts, leading to confusion and skepticism among consumers.
One common way that companies engage in greenwashing is through the use of vague or misleading language. For example, a company might use terms like "natural" or "organic" on their product packaging, even if only a small percentage of the ingredients are actually natural or organic. This can lead consumers to believe that they are making a sustainable choice when in fact, they are not.
Another way that companies engage in greenwashing is by focusing on one aspect of their production process while ignoring others. For example, a company might promote the fact that their product packaging is made from recycled materials, but not mention the fact that the product itself contains harmful chemicals or that their manufacturing process is energy-intensive.
Additionally, some companies engage in greenwashing by promoting their eco-friendly initiatives without providing concrete evidence or transparency. For example, a company might claim to donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes, but not disclose which organizations they are donating to or how much money they are actually contributing. In most situations, these “donations” are tax write-offs and sent to organizations with large profit margins and/or board member payouts.
Greenwashing is harmful to both consumers and the environment. It undermines the efforts of companies that are genuinely committed to sustainability, and it can make it difficult for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. In some cases, greenwashing can even lead consumers to believe that they are making a positive impact on the environment when they are not.
To combat greenwashing in the beauty industry, consumers can educate themselves on what sustainable and eco-friendly practices actually look like. For example, they can look for products that are certified by reputable organizations like the Environmental Working Group or the USDA Organic program. They can also research the companies behind the products to determine whether their sustainability claims are genuine.
We also feel that we can combat greenwashing and over consumption in these few, easy and free ways:
Use what you have already (safely- not in use old things, but learn a product before just purchasing new things for the sake of it)
Buy only what you need!
Use multi-use makeup whenever you can, like a daily cheek and lip product that can be used on both
Look for packaging that benefits the product, not just looks pretty. Packaging should protect the integrity of the product but doesn't need to be excessive
Packaging that is biodegradable is the best
Not buying things just because they are trending, but only if you need it or will really use it
Use hair products only when needed, and non-aerosol when possible
Look into biodegradable hair ties and accessories to see if they are a good fit for you - like this hair clip made from starch!
Try out hair accessories and tools made from natural and renewable sources- like bamboo, rattan or wood
We’d love to hear your tips and thoughts on being a more ENVIRONMENTALLY friendly beauty <3
with love,
Diana + the ONLO team
