Corporate Social Irresponsibility, Greenwashing, and Consumer Skepticism: A Systematic Literature Review on Impacts, Strategies, and Stakeholder Response
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65820/ejems-1vol2-issue1-2026Keywords:
Corporate social irresponsibility, greenwashing, consumer skepticism, corporate social responsibility, Consumer ProtectionAbstract
Purpose: Corporate Social Irresponsibility (CSI), greenwashing, and consumer skepticism have become pressing concerns in today's business landscape. While companies increasingly adopt Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to enhance their public image, many engage in greenwashing, misleading stakeholders about their environmental practices.
Methodology: This study explores the intricate interplay between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSI), greenwashing, and consumer skepticism by synthesizing insights from 54 peer-reviewed articles using the PRISMA framework. The review draws data from the Scopus database and Google Scholar, analysing key themes, trends, and stakeholder responses to greenwashing and irresponsible corporate practices.
Results: Findings reveal that companies often report symbolic CSR and employ deflection strategies to obscure socially irresponsible behaviours. Consumer responses include diminished brand trust, increased negative word-of-mouth, and loyalty shifts toward authentic, sustainable brands. Practical strategies for mitigating skepticism include transparent CSR reporting, issuing green bonds, and fostering social media engagement.
Novelty and contribution: This study's novelty lies in its integrated analysis of CSI, greenwashing, and consumer skepticism. It contributes a comprehensive framework for understanding how deceptive CSR practices influence consumer perceptions and stakeholder engagement.
Practical and social implications: The implications extend to corporate strategies and academic research, emphasizing the need for genuine CSR practices and transparent communication.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Azeezah Oyindamola Tayo, Morufu Oladimeji Shokunbi, Usman Olawale Sodiq , Ajani Ibrahim Tunde (Author)
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This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
