Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 1 — Conveying a false impression that a company's products are eco-friendly and environmentally sound

Greenwashing is a deceptive marketing practice where companies mislead consumers by falsely portraying their products, services, or organizational practices as environmentally friendly when they are not. This involves using misleading labels, imagery, vague claims, or selective disclosure of environmental benefits while hiding negative impacts. The term has become increasingly relevant as consumer demand for sustainable products grows, prompting some companies to exaggerate or fabricate their environmental credentials rather than making genuine improvements.

📝 Short Notes: Greenwashing

• Definition: Misleading marketing that creates a false impression of environmental responsibility or sustainability
• Common Tactics: Vague claims ("eco-friendly", "natural"), misleading labels, irrelevant claims, hidden trade-offs, false certifications, and use of green imagery
• Examples: Companies claiming "carbon neutral" without credible offsets, "biodegradable" plastics that require specific conditions, or highlighting one green feature while ignoring overall environmental harm
• Impact: Undermines genuine sustainability efforts, erodes consumer trust, and diverts attention from companies making real environmental progress
• Regulations: Many countries are developing stricter advertising standards and disclosure requirements to combat greenwashing
• Consumer Protection: Look for third-party certifications (Energy Star, Fair Trade, FSC), detailed data, and transparent reporting to identify genuine environmental claims