Greenwashing & Financial Services - Don’t Fall Foul of the Rules

Introduction

‘Green’, as a blanket label for all that is sustainable, can certainly be argued as the latest and hottest topic for finance which of course is deeply connected with all other sectors.

So, if green is desirable, why not take your existing product, call it green, sit back and reap the benefits. Of course not, that would be unethical… Yet it happens - whether that’s deliberate, accidental or deliberately accidental, consumers don’t like being fooled and regulators won’t tolerate it.

In fact, regulators believe this is fundamental to consumer protection, and under the Sustainability Disclosure Requirements have issued new rules on what firms can do. The requirements will be considered within this virtual classroom seminar.

The session also looks at common ways in which firms fall foul of the rules. We think about common greenwashing typologies and what you can do in your firms to minimise the risk of greenwashing or the perception that you greenwash. How can you evidence that your claims are clear, fair and not misleading?

It is designed predominantly for those working in financial services firms. First line staff in product design, oversight, and marketing will find value as the content will help them achieve compliant outcomes.

Second and third-line staff who are advising risk owners or evaluating systems and controls in place to meet emerging sustainability requirements will find this session valuable in ensuring appropriate development and implementation of a revised risk and compliance framework.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• What is sustainability and how attractive is it at present?
• Greenwashing or ‘green sheen’ - a summary of what, why and how
• Regulatory expectations - the anti-greenwashing rule, four labels, disclosure and internal management
• Addressing the needs of retail clients - sector specific examples
• How to spot greenwashing - 7 deadly sins
• Good practices in your firm
• Case studies - looking at many banned claims and fines with a focus on what not to do

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.