The time period “eco-friendly” will get thrown round loads — you see it on labels for all the things from sandwich luggage to sheet units. Because it’s used so usually, it may be exhausting to grasp the significance of eco-friendly existence and merchandise. And in case you aren’t positive what the phrase actually means, there is a better threat of being misled by firms claiming to take heed to the surroundings.
In line with Merriam-Webster, the official definition of eco-friendly is: “not environmentally dangerous.” On the subject of merchandise, which means all the things from manufacturing to packaging must be secure for the surroundings. However here is the place it will get tough: The FTC Inexperienced Guides say that to ensure that a product to be correctly labeled as eco-friendly, the packaging should clarify why it’s environmentally accountable. In any other case, it won’t even be secure for the surroundings primarily based on how customers truly use the product. These deceptive advertising and marketing claims are sometimes referred to as “greenwashing” (hold studying for extra on that matter).
We’re obsessed with all issues sustainable on the Good Housekeeping Institute: Our crew frequently evaluates merchandise for