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Greenwashing, a marketing tactic that exaggerates or fabricates a product's environmental benefits, is making it harder for consumers to shop sustainably.“There is such high demand for greener products out there,�� says Lexie Sachs, the Executive Director of Strategy & Operations for the Good Housekeeping Institute, which often vets sustainability claims from different brands. “People are wanting to buy things that are healthier for the environment, healthier for their own bodies, and they're willing to spend more for it sometimes,�� says Sachs.Greenwashing is prevalent across industries, from cleaning products to clothing and even food. Common buzzwords like “clean,�� “natural,�� and “chemical-free�� often lack clear definitions or factual backing. For instance, “natural�� may imply a product comes directly from the earth, but most items undergo extensive production processes.To avoid falling for greenwashing, Sachs recommends looking for specific claims rather than vague statements. “If you see ‘made with recycled materials,�� that doesn’t tell you how much,�� says Sachs. “It could be 5%, which is negligible. So you really want to see specific metrics.�� The Federal Trade Commission’s Green Guides also push for brands to use precise, transparent language.Consumers can verify a company’s sustainability efforts by checking its website for an ESG (environmental, social, and governance) report, which should include measurable goals and data. Sachs also emphasizes the importance of reducing consumption, buying secondhand, and investing in durable products to minimize environmental impact.“If you can invest in things that will last you longer, reduce the need for buying more, that’s really going to have the best effect,�� says Sachs.For additional assurance, look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for textiles and the USDA Organic label for food and agricultural products.