The Senate has agreed to establish an inquiry into greenwashing by corporations in Australia.
The inquiry will investigate the impacts of greenwashing on consumers and the environment and will identify the legal and regulatory actions needed to stop it.
Senator Hanson-Young will oversee the inquiry as Chair of the Environment and Communications References Committee.
Greens Environment Spokesperson Senator Sarah Hanson-Young said:
“With recent ACCC figures showing over half of brands making false green claims to make themselves sound ‘greener’, corporate greenwashing is out of control, and it is the environment and consumers that are paying the price.
“Australians are more concerned about our environment than ever before, and they want to do the right thing by the planet when choosing products and services. They should be able to have confidence that when brands claim to be green it must be true.
“Whether it’s the clothing on our backs, or the food and drink we consume, everyday Australians are confronted with false environmental claims everywhere.
“It should be illegal to greenwash. We need laws that protect consumers from greenwashing and that hold companies to account.
“This inquiry is the first step in reducing greenwashing, protecting the environment and helping everyday Australians make better consumer choices.”
