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South Africa’s Regulator deems TotalEnergies’ sustainability claim misleading

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By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on ESG News or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: South Africa's Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) has ruled that TotalEnergies’ claim of promoting sustainable development in its marketing campaign is misleading
This ruling marks the first time the ARB has addressed allegations of corporate "greenwashing" in the country
The complaint was filed by the environmental group Fossil Free SA, challenging the oil company's #FuelYourExperience campaign

🔭 The context: TotalEnergies' campaign highlighted its long-standing partnership with South Africa's SANParks to promote environmental awareness
However, the ARB concluded that this partnership does not equate to comprehensive sustainable development practices across the company’s operations
The ruling underscores the inherent conflict between TotalEnergies' fossil fuel activities and the principles of sustainable development

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The ruling against TotalEnergies is significant in the fight against greenwashing, where companies make misleading claims about their environmental practices
Holding corporations accountable for their marketing messages is crucial for ensuring transparency and fostering genuine environmental responsibility

⏭️ What's next: TotalEnergies has the option to appeal the ARB's decision, although it has not yet indicated whether it will do so
This ruling may pave the way for similar complaints against other companies, encouraging stricter scrutiny of corporate environmental claims in South Africa

💬 One quote: “The ongoing exploitation of fossil fuel is contra-indicated in this context,” stated the ARB, highlighting the inherent conflict in TotalEnergies’ sustainability claims.

📈 One stat: The ARB’s decision is the first ruling on greenwashing in South Africa, signaling a potential increase in regulatory actions against misleading environmental advertising.

Click for more news covering the latest on greenwashing

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