While academics and others may be asking whether it is time to “say RIP to ESG,” the fact is that though some observers may be done with ESG, ESG is not done with us. A recent action by a U.K. regulator shows that companies remain susceptible to investigations and other regulatory actions for their sustainability and other product or business-related claims. In a December 12, 2023 press release (here), the U.K. Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that it has started a formal investigation into the London-based consumer products company Unilever to examine the company’s “green” claims about “a number” of its products.

As discussed below, this latest regulatory action underscores the fact that companies seeking to burnish their green credentials could be subject to scrutiny and even possible regulatory action. A December 13, 2023, Wall Street Journal article about the CMA’s investigation can be found here.Continue Reading Unilever Under U.K. Investigation for Possible “Greenwashing” Product Claims