Reality TV star Kim Kardashian is facing scrutiny from environmental group Greenpeace for her promotion of a new lingerie product called the “nipple bra.” The charity accuses Kardashian of trivializing the climate crisis and using it as a humorous element in her promotional video for the Skims clothing line.
In the promotional video, Kardashian, 43, addresses climate-related issues, stating, ” The sea levels are on the rise. The ice sheets are diminishing. While I’m not a scientist, I genuinely believe everyone can leverage their unique skills to contribute. That’s precisely why I’m unveiling a revolutionary bra featuring a built-in nipple. Regardless of the temperature, you’ll exude an appearance of coolness.”
While Skims asserts that 10% of the bra’s proceeds will be donated to 1% For The Planet, a group supporting environmental causes, Greenpeace condemns Kardashian for what they term “greenwashing.” In an Instagram post titled “Greenwashing explained – climate activists vs Kim Kardashian,” the environmental charity accuses Kardashian of appropriating the language of climate activists to endorse a plastic product made from petrochemicals. Greenpeace alleges that the product’s eco-friendliness is exaggerated in its marketing.
The charity argues that the advertisement makes light of the climate crisis, using melting glaciers and rising sea levels as a punchline to boost profits. Greenpeace contends that such an approach detracts from the severity of an issue that affects millions of lives. They express disappointment in Kardashian’s failure to use her status as a global icon to genuinely champion the fight against climate change.
Greenpeace characterizes the advert as perpetuating a profit-driven system that exacerbates the climate crisis. They criticize the focus on a plastic product and claim it diverts attention from more impactful actions, such as the proposed UN Global Plastics Treaty.
Skims, however, maintains its commitment to environmental causes through the 1% For The Planet initiative. The controversy surrounding Kardashian’s promotion highlights the challenges associated with celebrities merging environmental advocacy with commercial ventures. The dispute underscores the importance of responsible messaging and transparency when promoting eco-friendly initiatives.
Greenpeace emphasizes the urgent need for climate conversations in mainstream discourse, asserting that Kardashian’s approach falls short of contributing meaningfully to the fight against climate change. The charity underscores the gravity of the climate crisis and the missed opportunity for Kardashian to engage in a more impactful environmental conversation.
As the debate unfolds, it underscores the delicate balance required when aligning genuine environmental concerns with marketing strategies. The controversy highlights the necessity for public figures to approach eco-friendly initiatives with authenticity and a sincere commitment to contributing to the greater good.
Sources: Sky News