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Lexus Reprimanded for Greenwashing

October 29, 2008 · Print This Article

Lexus was recently forced to pull an ad claiming that its premium hybrid SUV was “perfect for today’s environment” and “perfect for today’s economic climate”.  Though the automaker claimed they were only trying to compare their hybrid comparably to non-hybrid SUVs, England’s Advertising Standards Authority disagreed, concluding that the ad misled people into thinking the SUV is more environmentally friendly than it really is.

Greenwashing is definitely running rampant right now, with manufacturers all too eager to cash in on what they see as a trend among buyers. MTV recently released a public service announcement warning us about just this – ironic, given their recent trashing of a pristine Costa Rican island for a reality show.

The fact is, even brands that you generally consider ‘safe’ will occasionally release a product that doesn’t quite meet green standards in their industry – but they won’t tell you that.  Always check out the specs – whether it’s a car, a food product, cosmetics, clothing or home furnishings.

Link [Matter Network] + [YouTube]

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