🗞️ Current AffairsUPSC 2022India and its Neighbourhood

Which one of the following best describes the term “greenwashing”?

aConveying a false impression that a company’s products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound.
bNon-inclusion of ecological/ environmental costs in the Annual Financial Statements of a country.
cIgnoring the disastrous ecological consequences while undertaking infrastructure development.
dMaking mandatory provisions for environmental costs in a government project/programme.
✓ Correct answer: a) Conveying a false impression that a company’s products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound.
ExplanationGreenwashing is a deceptive marketing practice where a company misleads consumers into believing that its products, policies, or practices are environmentally friendly, when in reality they are not.It is used to improve a company’s public image without making real sustainability efforts.Companies often use misleading labels, vague terms (like “natural” or “eco-friendly”), or exaggerated claims to appear environmentally responsible.Examples of Greenwashing:A company claims its plastic packaging is “biodegradable” but fails to mention that it takes decades to break down.Fast fashion brands marketing “sustainable” clothing lines while continuing environmentally harmful practices.Oil and gas companies promote carbon offset programs while still expanding fossil fuel extraction. :Bluewashing – When companies or organizations exagg- erate their social responsibility or commitment to sustainable practices without substantial action, often by associating with the United Nations.Greenhushing – When companies deliberately underre- port or downplay their sustainability initiati

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