Kohn Swift & Graf, P.C. and Pollock Cohen LLP are investigating “greenwashing” claims, and potential legal actions on behalf of consumers who have purchased products misleadingly marketed as environmentally friendly.

Companies are tapping into genuine and growing enthusiasm for environmentally sustainable products by marketing their products as “recyclable,” “biodegradable,” or “compostable.” Consumers seek and often pay more for these products, based on the belief that the products offer positive environmental impacts. Yet many of these claims are misleading or false.

These marketing ploys are known as “greenwashing,” and include false and misleading claims about the positive impact that a product or service has on the environment. These misleading claims may incentivize consumers to purchase products they would not have otherwise purchased. Such false statements may also unfairly harm companies that spend more to actually develop and use sustainable, green products to create a more sustainable future.

Our investigation is uncovering products falsely labeled as “recyclable,” “biodegradable,” and “compostable.” The products include “recyclable” coffee pods, coffee cup lids, plastic bags, and “plant based” plastics, “biodegradable” plastic bags and wrapping, and “compostable” foodware, wrapping, and bags.

Have you purchased a product because it was labeled as  “recyclable,” “biodegradable,” or “compostable” that you later discovered was misleadingly labeled? If so, call or email us or fill out the form below for a free, confidential consultation.