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The Ethical and Educational Implications of Greenwashing in Corporate Sustainability Practices

M. Kamraju(1),


(1) Army Welfare Education society
Corresponding Author

Abstract


Greenwashing has become a widespread concern as corporations increasingly use misleading sustainability claims to attract environmentally conscious consumers. Because many businesses prioritize profitability over genuine environmental responsibility, deceptive marketing tactics often obscure the true impact of their operations. This study examines the prevalence of greenwashing in various industries, analyzing how companies manipulate consumer perception through vague terminology, selective disclosures, and misleading certifications. Based on survey data and case studies, findings reveal that a significant portion of consumers distrust corporate sustainability claims, leading to weakened brand loyalty and calls for stricter regulatory oversight. Because regulatory frameworks remain inconsistent across different markets, companies often exploit legal loopholes to continue these deceptive practices. From an educational perspective, this study highlights the need for integrating sustainability literacy into curricula to equip consumers with critical thinking skills that help them identify and challenge greenwashing. Addressing this issue requires a combination of stricter policies, corporate accountability, and improved public awareness.

Keywords


Consumer trust; Consumer trust; Corporate ethics; Greenwashing; Greenwashing; Regulatory policies; Sustainability education

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