Greenwashing Lab – Sustainability, Environmental Science, Consumer, Advertisement

In the Greenwashing Detective Lab, students step into the role of environmental investigators to analyze real-world product claims and determine whether companies are making genuine sustainability efforts—or engaging in greenwashing. Using authentic company websites, advertisements, and packaging language, students practice critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and scientific skepticism in a highly relevant, hands-on investigation.

Students research environmental claims, evaluate transparency and data, identify common greenwashing tactics, and redesign misleading claims to be more honest and specific. The lab culminates in a hands-on sustainability audit using physical products, helping students connect classroom learning to everyday consumer choices.

Perfect for Environmental Science, Biology, Earth Science, or interdisciplinary sustainability units, this activity aligns strongly with NGSS science practices and emphasizes real-world application without feeling like a worksheet.

Why Teachers Love This Lab

• Highly engaging, real-world focus students immediately relate to
• Uses authentic company claims and research, not hypothetical examples
• Builds critical thinking, media literacy, and evidence-based reasoning
• Clear structure with strong discussion and reflection components
• Flexible for one class period or extended into multiple days

What’s Included

• Printable student lab handout with:
  • Background, purpose, and guided investigation steps
  • Six real-world product claim investigations with research links
  • Structured tables and guiding questions for each claim
  • Claim redesign activity focused on transparency and honesty
  • Hands-on sustainability audit using physical products
  • Reflection questions and exit ticket
• Comprehensive teacher guide with:
  • Lab rationale and instructional guidance
  • Sample answers and verdicts
  • Differentiation strategies and extension ideas
  • Discussion prompts and facilitation tips
  • Suggestions for physical products to use in class

What Students Will Learn

• How to evaluate environmental claims using evidence, not opinions
• Common greenwashing tactics used in advertising and packaging
• How transparency, data, and certifications build credibility
• How consumer choices influence environmental outcomes
• How to communicate scientific reasoning clearly and effectively

Easy to Implement, High Impact

Designed for 45 – 75 minutes, with natural extension opportunities for discussion, writing, or project-based learning. No special materials required—just printed pages and everyday products you likely already have in your classroom.

Help students become informed consumers and critical thinkers with this meaningful, inquiry-based sustainability lab that makes environmental science relevant, practical, and engaging.

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Thanks for visiting!
Jessica