How to Know if a Product's Material Is Environmentally Friendly

Environmentally friendly products provide a safer choice for you and the environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency defines environmentally preferable products or services as those that have a lesser effect on the environment and human health when compared with competing products. The comparison includes raw materials, production and packaging. To ensure that a product is environmentally friendly, check the label for certification seals.

Green Seal

• Green Seal, a nonprofit organization, offers an environmental certification to companies whose products meet rigorous standards established by the American National Standards Institute. The certification process begins with an inspection at the manufacturing site, followed by several months of product testing. The Green Seal certification logo, a blue dot marked with a green check, is awarded to products or services proven to be environmentally responsible. Find the Green Seal logo on everything from household cleaning products to hotel properties.

ENERGY STAR

• Look for the ENERGY STAR sticker on electronics, appliances, residential heating and cooling systems, lighting and building materials. The EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy jointly offer the ENERGY STAR program to help consumers identify energy-efficient products. Qualified products reduce consumer spending and protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The voluntary ENERGY STAR labeling program extends to commercial buildings and new home construction.

USDA ORGANIC Seal

• The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates production methods for organic products through the National Organic Program. Look for the green and white USDA ORGANIC seal on organic crops to verify the organic grower’s certification. Irradiation, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, banned pesticides and genetically modified organisms are prohibited in organic crop production. Certified organic livestock producers use 100 percent organic feed and ensure animal welfare. The USDA ORGANIC seal on multiple-ingredient foods certifies an organic content of 95 percent.

FSC Trademark

• The Forest Stewardship Council promotes a global effort to ensure responsible forest management for current and future generations. Responsibly managed plantations and forests reduce the effects of climate change and continue to provide food, clean water and natural resources. The nonprofit organization allows their dark green FSC trademark to be used on products originating from a certified forest manager. An FSC label also certifies that products are processed through certified manufacturers and distributors.