- KolaxopackagingUSA
- May 19, 2026
Green Claims in Packaging: What Consumers Should Know?
‘Greenwashing’ is a serious issue that can damage a brand's reputation. Some companies offer a few green benefits for their products and market them as eco-friendly, even though they still contain harmful elements.
Did you know, according to a study covering sales data from 2017 to 2022, brands that market their products with sustainability claims achieved around 28% cumulative growth? This indicates that misleading environmental claims are used to increase sales.
In this blog, we are going to explain what greenwashing actually is and how to not engage your brand in such false claims. Additionally, we will also provide a guide for consumers to stay safe and strategies to avoid greenwashing completely.
Moreover, this blog post will also cover the drawbacks of green claims in packaging for brands that are new to the market. So don't miss out on this blog! Let's begin.
Greenwashing Tricks To Look For
The following are some of the green claims in packaging used by companies that you should avoid as a business owner.
1. Overstated Percentages
Some companies claim '20% less plastic'; this might sound eco-friendly, but in reality, it is still an environmental issue, especially if the packaging material is still largely produced out of virgin plastic.
2. Ecowashing
Some packaging claims to be recyclable but is unacceptable for local recycling systems, and it can never be practiced in reality.
3. Misleading Recycling Claims
Some companies highlight only minor environmental advantages while ignoring the bigger picture and hiding the sources, production, and disposal impact.
4. Unsupported Claim
If your packaging supplier is not providing any certificate, traceability of the product, or life-cycle data, then their claims cannot be trusted at all.
Detecting And Preventing Greenwashing
Here is a list of ways to get fully prepared not to get caught by false claims and overexaggerated labels. Read the following points to prevent and avoid greenwashing.
- Always search for the packaging that has legitimate certifications from a few national or international agencies, such as Energy Star Certified, Green Seal Certified, or USDA Certified Organic.
- Give yourself a challenge and check out all the products that you use to detect any greenwashing claims.
- Inform your consumers and spread the word of mouth to help limit the usage and any false environmental advertisements that might mislead anyone into buying greenwashed products.
- Always try to shop from small or local businesses and packaging vendors that instantly provide you with certifications when inquired.
- You can also download apps that help you find out about packaging information approved by the government.
Another interesting fact to share here is that the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides information on its website regarding greenwashing to help consumers to stay aware and well-informed before making any purchase. The website is designed to make sure that the market remains fair & competitive. Hence, these guidelines help you choose the real green instead of greenwashed products.
How To Be Mindful While Choosing a Packaging Supplier?
Here are more points to keep in mind:
- Always look for such packaging box suppliers that do not explain environmental effects by using hyped-up phrases rather than looking for understandable phrases or plain explanations.
- Another point to verify is that the marketing claim should be directed towards one item, either the product or the packaging.
- The marketing language of the packaging should not overstate the minor environmental impact while trying to limit the disadvantages of other points.
- If a brand is competing with another brand, then its statement should always be verified, and you should be able to find an authentic certificate while researching it online.
- You can also look for trusted third-party certifications to be extra sure; for instance, search for the Carbon Trust Standard for verified CO₂ emissions or USDA-certified organic certifications.
How To Save Yourself From Greenwashing Claims?
To avoid greenwashing completely, it is vital to make accurate environmental claims on your packaging. Always make sure that your information is up to date, authentic, and verifiable. Apply for proper certifications and provide a link to them on your website. We have prepared a list for you to secure your brand's reputation and emerge as trustworthy among consumers who buy from you.
What Do Modern Consumers Expect?
With the changing times, consumers are getting more aware of the environmental impact of the products and packaging that they purchase. Consumers are not ready to hide behind fluffy statements.
To meet consumers' expectations, companies should stay transparent regarding the environmental effects of their packaging material and provide verifiable evidence for their claims.
1. Use Truly Eco-Friendly Packaging Materials
Using a completely eco-friendly packaging material might benefit your brand in the long run, as eco-conscious consumers might trust your brand more and purchase from you in the future as well. Some of the widely used eco-friendly packaging materials include:
Paper: Since it's biodegradable and recyclable, it is the most common choice for brands while switching to sustainable options.
Bioplastics: These are flexible, soft plastics that are developed from renewable resources. But one thing to be aware of is that you should check whether the bioplastic is truly recyclable or compostable, or not. Different categories require different facilities for the proper disposal of these plastics.
2. Work Towards Building Consumer Trust
For building consumer trust, avoiding greenwashing is quite essential. Your brand should show commitment to sustainability to attract eco-conscious consumers. By integrating the right material and comprehending customers' expectations, brands can easily develop such packaging that would reflect their company's objectives and would match up with current customers' demands.
Negative Impact of Greenwashing
Following is a chart showcasing the negative impact of green claims in packaging:
Wrap Up
If everyone strives together, then greenwashing days are numbered. Especially with new laws and restrictions from the government, these claims have now been taken seriously. As consumers are getting well-aware about brands' tactics and false claims, it's a wake-up call for the companies to update their packaging style and appear authentic.
In this blog, we have given a complete guide about what green claims in packaging are and how consumers can avoid them with mindful thinking. Additionally, we have also provided a chart about the negative impact on brands that use greenwashing techniques. Here at Kolaxo Packaging USA, we have a ton of sustainable packaging options available. Visit our website to check out our cardboard corrugated boxes.
Thank you for reading the blog!
