Green Labels
With nearly every product claiming to be eco-friendly these days—there are about 700 “green” certification programs worldwide—whose claims can you trust? According to Consumers Union, the best eco-labels are those with meaningful, consistent, and independently verified standards for environmental protection and/or social justice (see the Related Resources for more about these criteria.
The following labels should play a prominent role in your purchasing decisions:
ENERGY STAR—Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy label used on energy-efficient products in more than 60 categories (including computers, dishwashers, even new homes); products often cost more than their conventional counterparts but consume up to 65 percent less electricity.
WATERSENSE (http://www.epa.gov/watersense)—Government label applied to plumbing fixtures (including toilets, showerheads, faucets) that use at least 20 percent less water than standard models without sacrificing performance.
EPEAT (Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool)—Bronze, silver, or gold certification given by the Green Electronics Council to computers and monitors based on energy efficiency, use of nontoxic and/or recycled materials, and packaging; all EPEAT-certified products meet Energy Star requirements.
GREEN SEAL—Certification awarded by Green Seal recognizes sustainability in more than 300 product and service categories (ranging from lightbulbs and household cleaners to windows and hotels).
GREEN-E—Label bestowed by the Center for Resource Solutions on “green power” programs, carbon offsets, and renewable energy certificates (RECs) that make meaningful contributions to clean energy development and lowering global warming emissions.
FSC—Verification by the Forest Stewardship Council that wood and wood products (including furniture) have come from sustainably managed forests that protect biodiversity, ecosystems, and workers.
USDA ORGANIC—Department of Agriculture seal for produce and grains grown from non-genetically modified seed and without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, and meat or dairy products derived from animals raised on organic feed and not given antibiotics. Processed foods bearing the seal must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients to say “organic” on packaging, and at least 70 percent to say “made with organic ingredients.”
