International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 7, Issue 4 (July-August 2025) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

True cost of Greenwashing

Author(s) Ms. Harichandana A D
Country India
Abstract This independent investigation began when I noticed companies making bold "eco-friendly" claims while their environmental records told a different story. Determined to understand the real consequences of greenwashing, I spent [X months/weeks] tracking:

32 major corporate scandals (2015-2023)

Stock market reactions using free financial tools

Media coverage patterns across industries

Regulatory outcomes (fines, lawsuits)

Key Tools Used:
• Google Scholar & SEC filings
• Yahoo Finance historical data
• News archives (Factiva free trials)
• Spreadsheets to compare cases

What Makes This Different:
Most greenwashing studies come from universities or Wall Street analysts. This is a ground-level view using publicly available information anyone can access - proving you don't need special privileges to uncover corporate truth.

Limitations & Learning Moments:

Had to teach myself financial terms like "CAR" (cumulative abnormal returns)

Some corporate reports required multiple reads to spot greenwashing

Biggest surprise: How little agriculture gets punished compared to manufacturing

Why It Matters:
When markets ignore fake sustainability in some sectors, it gives companies permission to keep polluting. This research helps everyday people:

Recognize greenwashing tricks

Pressure companies that avoid consequences

Support truly sustainable businesses

Future Questions:
• How does greenwashing affect consumer trust long-term?
• Could social media activism close the accountability gap?
• What simple reforms would make punishments fairer?
Keywords finance
Field Sociology > Economics
Published In Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On 2025-08-03
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.52853
Short DOI https://doi.org/g9vzmq

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