Ad Standards is currently examining a radio advertisement for 'Renewable Gas', a MasterChef sponsor, following allegations of greenwashing. The complaint was lodged by Comms Declare and the Environmental Defenders Office, marking the second greenwashing complaint about 'Renewable Gas' to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) since May. The radio ad claims that 'Renewable Gas' has 'no additional emissions' and that a 'carbon-friendly croquembouche would taste even sweeter'.

Belinda Noble, Founder of Comms Declare, argues that the ad violates advertising rules that necessitate specific, clear green claims with relevant disclaimers. She states, "We believe this ad breaks advertising rules that require specific, clear green claims with relevant disclaimers. Renewable Gas is a vague term that refers to several hydrogen and biomethane products at different concentrations and availability, and those used in the MasterChef kitchen still create significant climate pollution. The ad was played on 3AW’s AFL show, showing the gas industry is targeting Victoria, where gas has been banned in new homes."

'Renewable Gas' is a brand created by Jemena, ATCO, Solstice and Australian Gas Networks (AGN). The ad aired on 3AW’s AFL show, indicating that the gas industry is targeting Victoria, where gas has been banned in new homes.

The MasterChef sponsorship has been criticised by The Grattan Institute and Doctors for the Environment. It was also questioned at the recent Senate Inquiry into Greenwashing about the MasterChef sponsorship. Environment Victoria has released a MasterChef parody video and a petition to MasterChef.

Comms Declare represents over 100 organisations and hundreds of communications professionals who have pledged not to promote the growth of fossil fuels, high greenhouse gas pollution as ‘business as usual’, deception, distraction or spin around science or climate actions. The Secretary-General of the United Nations has called on all media companies to cease advertising fossil fuels.