COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE GREENWASHING IN THE NEWS

APRIL 2023

Did you catch the recent announcement that in an Australian first, ASIC launched proceedings against a superannuation firm for alleged greenwashing? They also issued $140,000 of infringement notices to others in response to greenwashing concerns.

ASIC has declared that action against greenwashing is one of their 2023 Enforcement Priorities and will be working alongside regulators such as the ACCC, who also listed greenwashing as a priority this year. 

The ACCC recently announced that following an online sweep, 57% of companies reviewed made “concerning claims about their environmental credentials”. Of the 247 businesses, 30 were cosmetics and personal care brands – the worst performing sector with the highest proportion of concerning claims at 73%. The ACCC said they will be conduct further analysis of these issues and “will undertake enforcement, compliance, and education activities where appropriate”. 

Given these crackdowns and the increasing importance of sustainability and environmental impact to consumers now is the time to make sure any relevant claims your brand makes are are qualified and substantiated. We have a handful of regulatory and compliance experts we recommend, if you would like an introduction please contact us.