Kiwis wary of greenwashing

New Zealand - New Zealanders are skeptical about the environmental track records of companies with many believing most companies use the environment simply as a marketing tool.

Findings from G2's 'Eye on New Zealand' research shows 67% of New Zealanders believe most companies use the environment as a marketing tool and are still not environmentally conscious.

The report also suggested New Zealand consumers want more proof that businesses are stepping up efforts to address environmental challenges.

"The results say that 80% of those surveyed want companies to tell people what they are doing about the environment, although 42% don't believe companies when they say they are carbon friendly," Sarah Norrie, MD of G2, said.

Rachel Brown, CEO of the Sustainable Business Network added that many companies are judged on their corporate image, and public distrust of companies' environmental claims won't change until consumers see evidence and active demonstration of solutions.

"This means companies have to actively demonstrate their environmental commitments through their products, their services, their operations and communications," she said.

The survey was carried out by Australian company, Sweeney Research.