Climate Change and Legal Responsibility for Greenwashing

Abstract

The term “greenwashing” refers to the act of misleading consumers about a company's environmental practices or the environmental benefits of a product. This term was coined by environmental activists to describe the efforts of companies to portray themselves as environmentally friendly and use this as a cover for environmental violations. In this sense, it is the opposite of a “green product,” which contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. A lawsuit was filed against Washington Gas in August 2022 for misleading its customers with advertisements that portrayed methane gas as a clean fuel that could be an important climate solution. The case has not been settled yet. Within a foundational and analytical approach, and concluding with some results and recommendations, this chapter discusses the liability for such act and the facts of this case and its legal basis, as it harms consumers and fair competition.