Everything You Need to Know About Greenwashing

Videos

Grades8, 9, 10, 11, 12, APScience, Economics, English Language Arts

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by NowThis Earth
Open Resource

What it is

  • This video describes greenwashing, the history of the term greenwashing, and ways consumers can look for products that are better for the environment.

Teaching tips

Positives

  • It’s quick and informative, allowing students to absorb the information in a small amount of time.
  • Graphics and text make the video more interesting for students.

Additional Prerequisites

  • The video outlines three ways to see through greenwashing: be a skeptic, look for certified ecolabels, and do your research.
  • It may be helpful to look up some ecolabels and certifications ahead of time for reference.
  • It may help to provide some information about the motivations of corporations, media literacy, and what wording is regulated on product packaging and marketing.

Differentiation

  • In history or economics classes, students could research major companies, their sustainability practices, and potential greenwashing by these companies.
  • This video could be used in as English language class to teach about media literacy.
  • Students could bring in products that are “green” and do further research on the product to decide whether it’s actually better for the environment.
  • Students could create a guide or poster about common marketing slogans or statements that are not regulated or certified.
  • Students could research other advertisements or products that are marketed or advertised as "healthy," "safe," or "good for the environment" and then research if any proof or evidence is needed to make the claims presented.

From the scientist review

The history of greenwashing is discussed in this video. In addition, the video introduces a guide to show how to detect products that have been greenwashed. This is recommended for teaching.
How we review resources

Ready to use it?

Hosted on youtube.com

Open Resource

Want this to fit your class?

Add your location for local examples, questions, and action ideas.

Related Teaching Resources