Combating Disinformation

Regulatory landscape against greenwashing 🌎 Regulations to prevent greenwashing are becoming increasingly stringent as governments and regulatory bodies worldwide seek to ensure that environmental claims are accurate, transparent, and verifiable. Historically, misleading green claims were regulated under general consumer protection laws, but the growing prevalence of sustainability-related marketing has led to more specific guidelines. Authorities such as the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the European Commission have introduced new frameworks, including the Green Claims Code and the Green Claims Directive (GCD), to provide stricter oversight and enforcement. These initiatives aim to prevent businesses from using vague or deceptive sustainability claims to mislead consumers. Regulatory enforcement has intensified, with an increasing number of lawsuits and penalties for companies found guilty of greenwashing. In recent years, consumer protection agencies and advertising regulators in the US, UK, and EU have taken legal action against major brands that have misrepresented their environmental impact. Beyond government interventions, watchdog organizations and class-action lawsuits are holding companies accountable, resulting in substantial financial and reputational consequences. One of the key areas of regulatory focus is third-party certifications, which many companies use to validate their environmental credentials. However, the credibility of certification schemes varies widely, and some have been criticized for lacking independent verification or rigorous standards. To address this, the GCD explicitly bans self-certified sustainability labels and mandates that all new certifications undergo prior approval before being used in the EU. Only those that demonstrate meaningful environmental impact and transparency will be permitted, reducing the risk of misleading claims disguised under weak or unregulated certifications. Another significant shift in greenwashing regulations is the requirement for companies to consider the entire lifecycle of their products when making sustainability claims. As regulations become more stringent, companies will need to proactively adapt their sustainability strategies to remain compliant and credible. The shift towards greater transparency, stricter verification processes, and lifecycle-based assessments signals a new era of accountability in corporate sustainability. Businesses that fail to meet these evolving standards risk legal action, financial penalties, and consumer distrust, while those that embrace more rigorous sustainability reporting and certification processes will be better positioned to build trust and demonstrate genuine commitment to environmental responsibility. Source: Anthesis Group #sustainability #sustainable #business #esg #climatechange #greenwashing

54% of LinkedIn posts are AI-generated - Should we be concerned? Analysts predict that by 2028, AI will generate 80% of online content. But the real problem is not automation but the erosion of truth. A study by Originality ai found that over half of LinkedIn’s long posts are AI-written. While this is not surprising as AI content is often easy to spot, what’s more concerning is what happens when it isn’t. AI models like GPT-4.5 still “hallucinate” in 37% of cases, according to an MIT report. That means they fabricate information at a non-trivial rate while sounding convincingly human. The deeper issue is not just artificial text but artificial truth. As AI-generated content becomes ubiquitous, the boundary between what is real and what is synthetic will blur. At a fundamental level, intelligence (biological or artificial) is not built for truth-seeking but for optimization and survival! AI models don’t aim to be truthful; they aim to minimize error in the most computationally efficient way. Take gradient descent, for example: it finds the fastest path to an optimal minimum, not necessarily the most truthful one. As models grow larger and more complex, tracking the origins of misinformation will only get harder. I will soon be publishing a paper on this topic, but it is something to be concerned about. Truth will become more and more difficult to assess. https://lnkd.in/gh9hmjvd https://lnkd.in/gtni_TQb

The Power of Truth vs The Speed of Lies. In Pashto, there is a profound proverb: "چې رښتیا راځي، دروغو کلي روان کړي وي", which translates to "By the time the truth arrives, the lies have already destroyed the villages" This simple yet powerful phrase resonates deeply with many of us, especially in today's fast-paced, digitally connected world. I have personally observed a lot of such challenges, being engaged in so many platforms and so many networks. It speaks to a universal truth: lies, misinformation, and deception can spread rapidly, causing damage and disruption long before the truth even has a chance to catch up. 💡 Why Does This Matter for us? In our personal and professional lives, we often see how quickly false narratives can take root. Whether it’s workplace rumors, misleading news, or incomplete data, lies can disrupt progress, damage reputations, and erode trust. By the time the real story surfaces, the damage is often done. Villages—communities, organizations, or even entire societies—have already been damaged, struggling to undo the harm caused. As leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals, we must be vigilant in promoting and upholding truth. It may be slower to unearth truth, but when it does, it has the power to heal, rebuild, and set things right. What Can We Do? Always verify information before acting on it or sharing it, especially in the digital age where falsehoods can go viral in minutes. Create an environment where people feel safe to speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. A culture of transparency helps to prevent the spread of falsehoods. As professionals, we must be examples of truth-telling. Even when it’s difficult, speaking truth to power, clients, or colleagues builds credibility in the long run. Truth often takes time to emerge fully. Being patient and giving space for deeper understanding can prevent hasty decisions that may be based on incomplete or inaccurate information. As we navigate our careers, businesses, and lives, let us always choose the path of integrity, even when it takes longer, because when truth arrives, it is always worth the wait ✌ Questions for my readers: What are your thoughts on truth and integrity in today's fast-paced digital world? How do you navigate the challenges of misinformation in your work? Comment Below. Let’s keep this conversation going👇 #Leadership #Integrity #Truth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Wisdom #Proverbs #Pashto #Transparency

This procurement choice made me unpopular. But I’d do it again in a heartbeat. We were sourcing branded merchandise from a factory in China. The quote ticked all the right ESG boxes: recycled materials FSC packaging ethical practices But it didn’t hold up. The FSC code they listed registered their logistics provider. They claimed “100% recycled” but it turned out to mean the product could be recycled, not that it was. And when I asked for proper audit reports they sent me a glossy PDF full of "stock images". So I suggested we walk away. Yes it delayed the project. It also annoyed a few stakeholders. But I wasn’t willing to back a claim I couldn’t verify. And I’m not alone. A recent EU review found 42% of green claims were exaggerated, false or deceptive. In the supply chain space, 70% of ESG statements go unverified. And big brands get caught in this all the effin time. Here are 3 real signs of greenwashing I’ve seen in supplier deals and what to do about them: 1️⃣ Borrowed credentials Suppliers list certifications they don’t actually hold. One factory used another company’s FSC code to look compliant. ♻️What to do: Cross-check certificates on official registers. If the name doesn’t match the supplier’s legal entity it's a huge red flag. 2️⃣ Buzzwords over substance "Eco-friendly”, “green-certified”, “sustainable packaging” but no hard data. A Changing Markets Foundation report found 60%+ of fashion brands rely on vague ESG language without evidence. ♻️ What to do: Ask for LCAs or raw material breakdowns. If it’s just buzzwords, assume it’s fluff. 3️⃣ PowerPoint proof When asked for ESG evidence, some suppliers send marketing decks. One even shared a “sustainability video” instead of an audit. ♻️What to do: Ask for third-party audit results. If they avoid it twice, move on. Greenwashing is getting smarter. Procurement needs to get bolder. We’re canot forget that we must protecting brands, values, and compliance. Would you have also walked away too? Or tried to make it work?

As Election Tensions Soar, Beware the Trap of Chasing Clicks and Likes Over Truth: In today's digital age, everyone should be responsible online, especially those with large followings. The more people that follow you, the more responsibility you bear. It's not just about gaining attention or going viral; it’s about understanding the impact your words, content, and actions have on society. I blame the country and the world for what is happening. We live in a time where spreading hate, tribalism, racism, and outright misinformation has become a business model, all in the name of clicks, likes, and engagement. But what people fail to recognize is the long-term damage they’re doing. They trade authenticity for attention, but at what cost? There’s a scripture that says, What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose their soul? It's a question every influencer, content creator, and social media user needs to reflect on. How many likes are worth misleading or misinforming people? Is there any amount of online engagement that justifies the harm you might cause? Think about the young man who might walk into a school and start shooting innocent children because of the toxic ideologies he's consumed online. Think about the people who are radicalized by the misinformation and hate spread through social media platforms. Do you believe these tragedies won’t touch your life? Do you think those kids in danger can't be your own? Are you under the illusion that you're safe simply because you’re behind a screen or because you live in a different neighborhood? None of us are immune. You may not go to school, but do you go to work? Do you visit the grocery store? Tragedy doesn’t discriminate, and neither does the hatred being sown online. However, the problem is deeper than just individual behavior. The people who spread these divisive messages are being funded to do so, paid to push division, tribalism, and racism. Meanwhile, the voices of balance and truth are left unsupported. We all complain that there is too much disinformation online, but we fail to invest in and uplift moderate, honest, and responsible voices. As a result, creators who want to do the right thing are forced to rely on engagement-driven algorithms to make a living. This system often rewards the most outrageous, divisive, and destructive content—content that not only divides but also has the power to kill. At what cost are we allowing this to continue? We need to redirect resources to influencers who stand for balance, truth, and integrity. Those who understand their responsibilities and commit to being a positive force online deserve our support. It’s time to invest in those who use their platforms to build bridges, not walls. We have to stop chasing short-term attention and start nurturing the voices that will lead to a better, safer, and more informed world.

Not All Green Labels Are Created Equal: How to Avoid #Greenwashing and Build Trust! Did you know that 42% of "green" claims are exaggerated or misleading? 🌍💡 In today’s eco-conscious market, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a trust factor. But here’s the catch: Not all "green" labels are trustworthy. Some are backed by rigorous certifications, while others are just clever marketing tactics designed to mislead. For businesses, this isn’t just a branding challenge—it’s a matter of credibility. 🔎 Consumers are more informed than ever. They’re scrutinizing claims, demanding transparency, and holding brands accountable. If your sustainability efforts aren’t genuine, they’ll see right through it. So, how can your business avoid greenwashing and build real trust? ✅ 1. Prioritize Transparency Don't just tell—show. Share the why and how behind your sustainability initiatives. Customers want to know the story behind your efforts, not just the end result. 🔹 What materials do you use? 🔹 Who makes your products, and under what conditions? 🔹 What impact does your business truly have? The more transparent you are, the stronger your credibility. ✅ 2. Choose Credible Certifications Not all labels are created equal. Opt for verified, reputable ones that hold real accountability: 🔹 B Corp – Measures social & environmental impact 🔹 Fairtrade – Ethical sourcing & fair wages 🔹 FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – Sustainable forestry practices If you’re using a certification, make sure it aligns strategically with your values—not just as a compliance checkbox. 🚫 3. Avoid Empty Buzzwords Terms like “natural” or “eco-friendly” sound great—but without proof, they can backfire. 📌 In many regions, including the EU and the US, unsubstantiated claims are considered false advertising and can lead to legal consequences. Instead of vague claims, provide data and measurable impact. For example: ❌ "Eco-friendly packaging" → ✅ "100% biodegradable and compostable within 90 days" 🧐 How to Spot the Difference? Not sure how to distinguish trustworthy vs. misleading labels? Use this quick guide: ❌ Misleading Labels: (Vague terms like "green" or "eco-friendly", No proof or third-party verification, Overpromising impact) Sustainability isn’t just about slapping a label on your product—it’s about creating real, positive impact through your business practices. 📢 Have you ever spotted greenwashing in action? Drop a comment below! 👇 ♻️ If this post was helpful, share it with your network to spread awareness! #Sustainability #Greenwashing #EcoFriendly #SustainableBusiness #Transparency #BCorp #Fairtrade #FSC #EthicalBusiness #ClimateAction #SustainableLiving #GreenMarketing #BrandTrust

These 5 Music Industry Lies Could Cost You Everything I’ve seen brilliant songs go viral and still lead to legal issues I’ve seen careers stalled because someone believed what “Twitter Law” said. Let’s clear up some dangerous myths before they cost you your rights and revenue: 🚫 “If I’m the artist, I own the song.” Wrong. If you didn’t write or produce it, and you don’t have a contract assigning rights, you might not own anything at all. 🚫 “We’re all friends, no need for split sheets.” Until the song blows and someone disappears with all the royalties. Friendship is not a business structure. 🚫 “If I credit the producer on Instagram, that’s enough.” It’s not. Credits don’t equal ownership, payment, or rights. That’s what contracts are for. 🚫 “If I upload my music first, I’m protected.” Uploading ≠ ownership. You need proof of authorship and formal copyright protection to defend your rights legally. 🚫 “When the money comes, we’ll sort it out.” Money doesn’t create clarity, it exposes the lack of it. Structure your business before it starts making money. You can be talented, consistent, and hardworking and still lose everything if your business isn’t protected. 👇🏽 Artists, producers, managers, songwriters: What’s a music industry myth you’ve heard that made you laugh… or cry? Let’s talk in the comments. ——————————————————————————— Hi, I’m Kofoworola Eze, a music and film lawyer. I help music and film professionals protect their work, negotiate better deals, and build profitable, long-term careers. Follow for legal tips and industry insights on the business of music and entertainment.

Food is medicine—but only if it’s good nutrition advice. As both a Physician Assistant and a Registered Dietitian, I’ve seen firsthand how nutrition impacts patient outcomes. Whether in a clinical setting or scrolling on social media, one thing remains clear: misinformation is everywhere. Social media thrives on engagement, not accuracy. Patients come in confused, bombarded with messages about "toxic" foods, extreme diets, and miracle cures. And as clinicians, we’re left to sort through the noise. That’s why I wrote this piece for the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)—to help PAs recognize and combat nutrition misinformation. Here are 3 key takeaways: ✅ Credentials matter, but so does integrity. Just because someone has letters after their name doesn’t mean they’re sharing sound advice. Some professionals still push pseudoscience for profit. A good place to start is someone who is an RD or has a PhD in Nutrition Science. ✅ Fear-based messaging is a red flag. Buzzwords like "toxic," "inflammatory," and "poison" are often used to scare patients into buying products or following extreme diets. ✅ Research can be misused. Cherry-picked studies and out-of-context citations can make anything sound "evidence-based." Always look at the full body of research. As PAs, we have the power to guide our patients toward reliable, evidence-based nutrition advice. Let’s make sure they’re getting the facts—not fear. 🔗 Read the full article with more tips on how to spot misinformation here: https://lnkd.in/d2-GSiBR What’s the wildest nutrition myth you’ve had to debunk? Drop it in the comments! 👇

AI has made it easier than ever to exploit artists—and it’s a signal that they need real partnerships with lawyers now more than ever. A real example? Let's look at what’s been unfolding with Timbaland and the AI tool Suno. Timbaland has been hosting livestream “masterclasses” online where up-and-coming producers and artists submit their original work. But in a recent stream Timbaland took a beat from one artist and lyrics from another—without consent or agreement—and used both to generate a new track through Suno. The resulting AI song was a fully derivative work built from real creators’ content—without credit, compensation, or clarity on rights. He’s since apologized—but maintains he didn’t break any laws in the process. This is exactly the kind of ethical gray zone creators face in the AI era. And it shows how quickly music, art, and identity can be co-opted without adequate legal guardrails. When creative teams ask Legal: “Was that AI model trained on my sound?” “Can my livestream performance be reused without a license?” “What does copyright even mean when the ‘artist’ is synthetic?” “Can we just input this content and use the output?” “Can we use this person’s voice to develop a commercial?” Or the million other inquiries we get from creative teams wanting to use AI to generate net new content — they need real answers, backed by real ethics, rooted in creative and legal understanding. The implications of how we advise and guide those building and using these tools are massive. This isn’t about just protecting content. It’s about protecting culture. Now more than ever, legal must evolve from reactive risk managers to proactive rights protectors and strategic business partners. In today’s landscape, protecting creators requires: ✅ Understanding model training, AI governance, and dataset provenance ✅ Building licensing frameworks that prioritize consent, transparency, privacy, and compensation ✅ Embedding ethics into every layer of legal strategy To be clear, this isn’t just about Timbaland. Or Suno. It’s about whether we value creators enough to build frameworks that truly protect them. Legal leaders—creators need you in the room. Not just when things go wrong, but before they do. What tools, frameworks, or shifts do you think legal teams need to start making now to support artists and creatives in the AI era? 🤔 🔗 Complex full story below: https://lnkd.in/gKV_Gscr 🔗 Timbaland Apology: https://lnkd.in/ggSjnk-4 #TuesdayThoughtSeries #AIandCreativity #LegalInnovation   #CreatorRights #Suno #Timbaland #IPLaw #EthicalAI #FutureOfLaw #MusicLaw

The Pinterest Effect: Why DIY Diets Are Failing Your Clients (and Us!) Fellow dietitians, does this sound familiar? A client walks into your clinic and says: 👉 “I saw this diet on Pinterest—it guarantees I’ll lose 10 kgs in 2 weeks!” 👉 “I’m doing a celery juice cleanse because it’s trending on Instagram!” 👉 “I followed this keto plan my friend shared, but it’s not working for me.” And then they’re frustrated by: 🚨 Energy crashes 🚨 Stalled progress 🚨 Deteriorating health Why do these trendy DIY diets fail? ❌ They ignore medical history, metabolism, and individual needs. ❌ They’re designed for viral clicks, not sustainable results. ❌ They create a cycle of yo-yo dieting that harms health in the long run. Our Real Challenge as Dietitians 🌟 We’re not just crafting meal plans—we’re unlearning years of misinformation for our clients. 🌟 We’re fighting against the flood of social media influencers promoting quick fixes and unsustainable solutions. What Clients Need to Understand ✅ Your body is unique, and your health journey should reflect that. ✅ A plan from Pinterest or Instagram isn’t personalized—it’s a shortcut that often leads to setbacks. ✅ A dietitian is your partner in achieving sustainable, long-term health—not just weight loss. 📢 It’s time to choose science-backed, personalized nutrition over quick trends. #DietitianLife #ThePinterestEffect #PersonalizedNutrition #SustainableHealth #HealthJourney #NutritionMatters #ClientEducation