|
ECO-LABELS |
|
The most obvious and likely place a consumer looks for product information is on its packaging – that being anything that’s wrapped around, stuck on or attached to the product. Unfortunately, you can only partially rely on packaging for pertinent product information, because sometimes it’s what packaging doesn’t say that is most telling. Packaging, can, however, provide useful information when a producer, by means of a label, can claim to be abstaining from an unfavorable process, practice or constituent and using beneficial ones in their place. In such cases, labels (either a marking or descriptor) referred to as “eco-labels” serve to highlight a product’s unique ecological benefits. A label can be (1) a defined and regulated/verified (DR) claim (for example, Organic); (2) a defined, but unregulated/unverified (DU) claim (i.e., “biodegradable”); or (3) an undefined and unregulated (UU) claim (e.g., “Eco-Safe”). |
|
Defined claims that are substantive and verified by a reputable third party provide the best assurances to the consumer. Defined claims that are voluntary, and therefore not independently verified, have meaning but only to the extent that producers, manufacturers and distributors follow the law. Without oversight, there’s always the chance that unethical businesses will seize the opportunity to deceive consumers. |
|
An undefined claim is subjective and can mean anything the manufacturer wants it to mean. Claims like “Green,” “Environmentally Preferable” and “Eco-Safe” have no standard definition. This doesn’t mean all such claims are baseless, it only means that their meaning can be very inconsistent from manufacturer to manufacturer and product to product. The only way is to call the manufacturer and get more information. Those with nothing to hide won’t mind providing you with honest, straightforward answers. |
|
Regardless of whether a claim is defined and verified by a third party or undefined and unverified, Truth-in-Labeling laws apply. No manufacturer can legally defraud the public with false claims. Protect yourself by contacting the manufacturer if you are unfamiliar with an eco-label they are using. Ask the following pertinent questions:
1. What does the label mean? 2. Is there a second– or third—party organization or agency behind the label that is removed from the product it is certifying? 3. Are the label guidelines available for public review, and if so, by what means?
Labels may not be the perfect medium for learning all there is to know about a product, but at the point of purchase, it may be all you’ve got. All products, packaging and services impact the environment in some way, but some less than others; reading labels will help you find those in the latter group as will becoming familiar with some basic product attributes that render products good choices for the environment. There are too many product labels and attributes—good, bad or indifferent– for the scope of this article, so the emphasis is on common labels of which a better understanding will help you become greener consumers. |
|
Trask, Crissy (2006) It’s easy being green: A handbook of earth-friendly living. Gibbs Smith, USA |
|
To Contact Us: |
