How to tell if a product is GREEN or GREEN-washed

In a previous article, I told you the definitions of GREEN terms, and what to look for on the labels. This entry will give you more information, to delve deeper if you will, into the manufacturing process and corporate culture of the manufacturer/vendor.

  • First you want to start WITH the manufacturer. Find out what raw materials were used, where they came from AND take into account TRANSPORATION costs! (Are you buying bamboo grown in China? Not so GREEN when you take into account shipping!). GREEN manufacturing makes use of renewable resources & energy-efficient processes. All the while staying away from synthetic, man-made ingredients & VOCs.
  • Next you need to check out the packaging of the item. Is it packaged in plastic or a recycled paper? What is the % of post-consumer waste recycled content? Was soy ink used in the printing?
  • Upon installation and/or putting item together, what if anything will emitted into the air-any VOCs?
  • How much energy will the item use (is it Energy Star rated?) and what will it take to maintain the item?
  • What about the disposal strategy? Does the retailer/vendor/manufacturer offer a recycling program? This is really important with carpeting and padding, as carpeting is one of the biggest offenders of filling our landfills! If disposal strategy isn’t listed anywhere-ASK!. Does the manufacturer re-use the product, in effect utilizing aclosed loop production strategy? This is the case with TOTO plumbing products. Again, don’t be afraid to ask!
  • Lastly, look at the cost-benefit analysis when debating a purchase and its purchase price. Is it worth it to pay a little more for an item and have it have less of an impact on your health and the environment? Will it save you money in the long-run on your utility bills?

DeAnna Radaj is the owner of Bante Design LLC, an integrative lifestyle design company, which fuses Eastern and Western design/lifestyle philosophies. She is a nationally recognized speaker on healthy home design, color therapy/theory, psychology of clutter for adults and children, and a variety of business topics for the individual, small business owner and entrepreneur. Visit the Bante Design Web site for a list of all workshops and appearances at www.bantedesign.com