BusinessShift

Episode 6 (EN): BusinessShift – Greenwashing


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Where Does Marketing End – and Where Does Consumer Deception Begin?

In this episode of BusinessShift, host Tobias Kirchhoff dives deep into the controversial topic of greenwashing in the corporate world. He is joined by Dr. Bahar Cat-Krause, Global Head of Sustainability at TÜV Rheinland People & Business Assurance, and distinguished legal expert Dr. Christoph Schork from the law firm Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek.

Together, they shed light on misleading environmental claims by companies and how these may mislead consumers. They clarify the legal definition of greenwashing, analyze real-world examples—such as airlines’ claims of CO₂ neutrality—and examine the impact of deceptive marketing in products like breakfast cereals or baby food.

They also address current legislative developments and court decisions aimed at curbing greenwashing—including the landmark Katjes ruling by the German Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

Finally, they offer practical advice on how companies can communicate their sustainability efforts transparently and credibly. A must-listen for anyone wanting to recognize greenwashing—and make better-informed decisions as a consumer.

🎯 Topics at a Glance:

✅ What does greenwashing mean—and how can we spot it in everyday life?

✅ Which terms are particularly misleading?
✅ How far can companies go before crossing legal lines?
✅ The Katjes ruling—why even a QR code is no longer sufficient.
✅ What’s changing with new laws—and how can companies protect themselves?
✅ What transparent and credible sustainability communication looks like.

🕓 Chapter Overview:

  • 00:00:00 Introduction to BusinessShift Podcast
  • 00:00:28 Meet the Experts: Dr. Bahar and Dr. Christophe
  • 00:01:37 Understanding Greenwashing
  • 00:02:33 Examples of Greenwashing in Practice
  • 00:06:52 Legal Perspectives on Greenwashing
  • 00:12:35 Communicating Sustainability Effectively
  • 00:18:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
  • ❗ Why This Matters:

    Consumer trust in sustainable products is vital—and that trust is at risk when claims lack transparency. With the new legal landscape, one thing is clear: greenwashing will no longer be treated as a minor offense. Companies must now take action to ensure their sustainability messaging is both legally compliant and credible.

    📌 Learn More & Additional Resources:

    Discover TÜV Rheinland’s sustainability services:
    https://www.tuv.com/landingpage/en/sustainability/

    More about Dr. Christoph Schork and his legal expertise:

    Dr. Christoph Schork – Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek: https://www.heuking.de/de/anwaelte/profil/dr-christoph-schork.html

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    BusinessShiftBy Tobias Kirchhoff & Dr. Bahar Cat-Krause, TÜV Rheinland