Greenwashing in the era of sustainability: A systematic literature review

What is it about?

Purpose ¬- The primary objective is to synthesize current research on greenwashing in order to clarify the concept, to unravel its practices, to evaluate its impacts and to assess the effectiveness of existing regulations and strategies adopted to deter its propagation in contemporary environmental literature. Design/Methodology/Approach: Drawing on PRISMA approaches, the search strategy refers to the worldwide databases. The data set was established using inclusion and exclusion criteria based on selected keywords. The review process is basically conducted on 82 peer reviewed papers, published in English between 1995 and 2023. Findings: A gradual increase is marked in greenwashing literature. Reviewed studies focus on how the symbolism of greenwashing is socially constituted, including its drivers, tactics and effects, as well as identifying the principal procedures able to deter its propagation. The concept of greenwashing is therefore understood in accordance to the socio-cultural and geo-political context. Practical and Social Implications: The review provides critical suggestions for challenging a homogeneous greenwashing discourse. Additionally, the review is useful for policymakers to assess the effectiveness of existing regulations and policies to mitigate greenwashing. Moreover, the paper in invaluable for scholars new to the field by providing a consolidated knowledge base. Originality: The paper significantly contributes to the field by providing a holistic understanding of greenwashing based on a managed perspective that integrates updated insights and trends from multiple disciplines. It contributes to the academic discourse by covering the latest developments and shifts of the issue and providing a conceptual model useful for academics and practitioners.

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