toronto climate week greenwashing policy

Effective Date: April 22nd, 2025

TOCW (“we”, “our”, or “us”) is committed to promoting credible climate leadership and action. This policy ensures that all participants — including sponsors, partners, speakers, and event organizers — uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and impact. We aim to prevent and actively address any instances of greenwashing within the TOCW ecosystem.

what is greenwashing?

Greenwashing is the act of misleading stakeholders about the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product, service, or initiative. This includes exaggerating climate impact, making unsubstantiated claims, or using sustainability language as a marketing tool without meaningful action behind it.

policy principles

1. Integrity Over Optics
All sustainability claims made in the context of TOCW — including in presentations, marketing materials, partnerships, or event content — must be accurate, evidence-based, and verifiable. We do not accept vague or inflated environmental statements without supporting data or third-party validation.

2. No Pay-to-Greenlight
Sponsorship or funding of TOCW does not imply endorsement. We do not accept financial support as a substitute for credible climate action. Any company or individual participating in TOCW must align with our values and demonstrate good-faith efforts to reduce emissions, transition equitably, and act responsibly.

3. Curated Participation
TOCW reserves the right to deny or revoke participation, speaking roles, or sponsorship opportunities from any entity found to be engaging in greenwashing, misinformation, or obstruction of climate progress. We will also apply due diligence to avoid platforming such actors.

4. Community Accountability
We welcome concerns from the community. Anyone can flag potential greenwashing by contacting us at info@tocw.ca. TOCW will review submissions in confidence and engage third-party experts as needed to evaluate the claims.

implementation & review

• Pre-screening: All potential sponsors and partners will be reviewed for alignment with TOCW’s mission and this policy.

• Annual Review: This policy will be reviewed and updated annually based on community feedback and evolving best practices in sustainability governance.

statement of commitment

By participating in Toronto Climate Week, all partners and contributors affirm their commitment to honest communication, continuous improvement, and authentic climate leadership. This policy is a cornerstone of our efforts to ensure that TOCW is not just a platform for climate conversations — but a catalyst for real, lasting change.

contact us

If you have any questions about this Greenwashing Policy, please contact us at:
info@tocw.ca