Key Points:
- Danone settled two false advertising lawsuits over its plastic packaging filed by Earth Island Institute and the Plastic Pollution Coalition.
- Danone agreed to allocate corporate funds over the next three years towards reducing plastic packaging or providing plastic-free alternatives for Evian bottles in the U.S.
- The settlements follow a trend of increased scrutiny on environmental claims by companies, despite potential delays in updates to the FTC’s Green Guides.
- PPC and EII have filed multiple lawsuits against major consumer packaged goods companies over greenwashing and plastic pollution issues.
- The lawsuits generally seek behavior changes and amended marketing statements rather than financial compensation.
- Other companies, including Nestlé and Procter & Gamble, have also settled with EII in similar cases.
Insight:
Companies face growing risks of greenwashing accusations as technology advances in identifying misleading environmental claims. Legal actions against companies making such claims are increasing in volume and value.
PPC and EII have been proactive in filing lawsuits against major corporations for greenwashing and plastic pollution, including recent suits against Fiji Water, Aquafina, Core Hydration, and Just Water.
Corporations like Danone have faced various lawsuits over plastic packaging and microplastics, with some cases being dismissed while others result in settlements with environmental organizations.
The push for greater transparency and accountability in packaging practices is evident in the ongoing legal battles and settlements in the industry.
Companies should be vigilant in ensuring their environmental claims are accurate and backed by sustainable practices to avoid legal repercussions.