Greenwashing In Beauty
Although the narrative of transitioning to a more eco-friendly future has become more of a marketing tactic than a reality, it’s essential to break down the intention and deception. Greenwashing isn’t just particular to beauty. Instead, in every other market as well. A massive part of why this marketing message works is because everyone wants to be part of a positive change. Change is simple. Reflect and be active in the positivity that speaks to you.
The Origin of Being “Eco-friendly”
Taking care of the planet and being aware of our impact is not a new narrative. However, the disconnect in the movement is that this problem is presented as a people problem rather than a systemic one. To keep it simple, necessary industries have the most power. Therefore, they also exert the most control. Based on that understanding, the food industry is the most influential because it is necessary for survival. Not to mention, it is the most profitable industry, and with profit comes greed.
To satiate profit requires keeping people “hungry” and “full” of products that don’t have any nutritional impact because of the toxic environments it was cultivated from. Not to mention, these toxic environments are organized in a way where it’s clear that money is the only motive. This is why companies make small efforts like using biodegradable packaging and use it as a significant selling point. The corporate efforts in reducing environmental impact are equivalent to the bare minimum given in a toxic relationship. The narrative of being more eco-friendly is just another method to divide and distract the population from becoming active.
Power is one of the most critical drivers of capitalism, and it’s essential to recognize how it shapes industries. Ultimately, how an industry is shaped will directly affect how an average person lives and their ability to live in a healthy and wholesome manner. What makes this complex is the oppression that power is built on and how it has truly broken generations of cultures and races. Capitalism thrives off of this disconnect where people work against each other instead of coexisting with acceptance.
Reclaim Your Power
Simply put, work with what you are given and keep yourself educated. Remember that there is an infinite abundance of knowledge, and everyone lives an experience reflecting their wisdom. People aren’t meant to take down capitalism. They are meant to exist in a way that keeps their souls at their happiest. Often, this involves living a life that’s authentic and filled with kindness. How does this relate to greenwashing? The effort and strength that comes with living authentically become reclaiming your power. Naturally, love and kindness are embedded in those efforts.
People who truly live a vegan and eco-friendly lifestyle understand that their choices are infused with respect. They also understand there is no true “right” and “wrong” because they understand the power of impact. Living as a vegan is a way for me to feel connected to my inner power and best upon learning about the oppression that capitalism inflicts on society. At the same time, I believe that the same effect can be done without becoming vegan. The focus should be on empowering one another and accepting the differences in lifestyles.
Conclusion
Overall, greenwashing shouldn’t be a selling point to anyone. If it is, then really think about why that appeals to you. If that seems optimistic to you and it matters if you are willing to spend the extra money, then spend the extra time to learn more. Relate this to what resonates with you, and ask yourself if you genuinely value standing in your power.
