What is Greenwashing Hydra?

Gibran Registe-Charles
2 min readFeb 6, 2023

--

Greenwashing Hydra refers to the increasing sophistication of corporate greenwashing, a practice in which companies falsely enhance or fabricate the environmental impact of their products and services.

The term “Greenwashing Hydra” is a nod to Greek mythology where the serpentine water monster, Hydra, would grow two new heads each time one was cut off. Similarly, financial think tank Planet Tracker sees greenwashing as a persistent problem that takes many forms and evolves over time, becoming increasingly sophisticated.

[1, 2]

According to a recent report by Planet Tracker, “The Greenwashing Hydra,” greenwashing activities now range from accidental inaccuracies within marketing to singular green practices that distract from other damaging environmental policies.

The report warns of six different types of greenwashing, and highlights the need for consumers to be aware of these tactics and to make informed decisions when considering the environmental impact of their purchases.

[3]

In conclusion, the Greenwashing Hydra refers to the evolving and sophisticated nature of corporate greenwashing. Companies are becoming increasingly savvy in their efforts to falsely enhance or fabricate the environmental impact of their products and services, making it more important than ever for consumers to be informed and to carefully consider the environmental impact of their purchases.

The report by Planet Tracker highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the corporate sector, and for consumers to be vigilant against the many different forms of greenwashing.

--

--