argument

While there has been a notable surge recently in support of environmental initiatives and sustainable practices, much of this "activism" is backed by little or no actual action. From the proliferation of greenwashed products to celebrity endorsements, people and companies are jumping on the environmental bandwagon at a rapid rate. Merely creating the illusion of eco-friendliness will not stop the effects of global warming; people need to put their money where their mouth is.

While it is an important first step for people to recognize environmental issues, simply supporting change verbally is not enough. Companies are taking advantage of the popularity of environmentally friendly products, and by using ambiguous labeling and "green" buzzwords like "natural," they fool consumers into purchasing products that may not really be good for the environment. It is a sad situation when consumers can't trust the labels on their products, and need to go shopping with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Because the major effects of global warming are not necessarily visible to everyone, and do not yet negatively impact many people's everyday lives, it is easy to recognize that something needs to be done but take no personal action. However, we cannot afford to wait until global warming has become a fill-fledged disaster. Action needs to be taken now, and taken on a large scale in order to prevent irreversible environmental damage and devastating effects. Greenwashing and statements of support are not enough. Many celebrities claim to be activists for environmental issues, but still arrive at events by personal jet, and live in sprawling mansions. As those who have an immense amount of resources at their disposal, it should be easy for them to implement energy-saving devices and lessen their carbon footprint. And although some may not like to admit it, celebrities are role models for many people, and their efforts might inspire others to make changes in their lives as well.

Many large corporations attempt to illustrate their commitment to environmentalism through commercials and advertising, giving consumers a false image of their actions and the goals of the company. Because people cannot see what actually goes on behind the scenes, and are often unaware of the processes that take their products from the company to the store shelves, they depend on the image the company projects. By putting an emphasis in advertising on their "environmentalism" or their "eco-friendliness," companies convince consumers that they are a good choice and are taking steps to address their environmental impact, which in many cases may not be true.

Skewing facts and figures and greenwashing products and advertisements is misleading and enables corporations to continue environmentally destructive practices while continuing to receive the support of mislead consumers. Companies must be held accountable for their products and their advertisements if they claim to be "green," the creation of an outside organization that monitors labeling and advertisements, or that can provide certification of products and commercials might make a difference, and may enable consumers to know for sure that what they are purchasing or watching is legitimate. Activists must walk the walk if they talk to the talk and encourage others to follow their lead, instead of saying one thing in public and doing another in private. After all, it's not the size of your car, it's the size of your carbon footprint, and if you drive a Prius in public but take a private jet to dinner, it makes for a pretty big footprint.