Get Your Green Straight!
certified organic / demeter-certified biodynamic / fair-trade / green seal / local / natural / post-consumer recycled / sustainable forestry
Since GREEN is the new black, we thought it would be helpful to post a cheat sheet to help you sort through all the different label you may encounter when you are out shopping. Read below to distinguish the difference between all the Eco-banter that is out there today!
Certified Organic
Regulated by the USDA, this label insures the absence of most conventional fertilizers and chemicals. Any processed product (meaning it is made with 2 or more ingredients) must be made of 95% organic materials.
Demeter-Certified Biodynamic
Run by a non-profit since 1982, this label bans harmful chemicals and synthetic fertilizers as well as emphasizes a more holistic approach in terms of farming.
Fair-Trade
The Fair-Trade Federations is an international group whose mission is to eradicate poverty around the world. They are doing this by making sure producers receive fair wages and that growing techniques include long-term environmental sustainability and community development. The Fair-Trade products we are most familiar with are coffee and chocolate.
Green Seal
Green Seal is an independent non-profit whose seal accredits everything from soap to hotels. They sponsor the manufacture, purchase and use of environmentally responsible products.
Local
Buy Local because it supports your community and uses less fossil fuels because food does not have to be shipped from far distances. Local food is considered anything grown with in a 100-150 mile radius. Farmer's markets are a great way to buy local.
Natural
Be careful with natural products because although they claim to contain no artificial colors or flavors, they are not regulated. Often products like this claim to be pesticide free but actually pump things into the soil their products are grown in.
Post-Consumer Recycled
As the gold-standard for recycled products, this is a great way to up your green score! All Post-Consumer Recycled products are made from materials that have been sold, used and then recycled.
Sustainable Forestry
The Forest Stewardship Council certifies that paper products come from forests that are managed in a way to promote long-term productivity and bio-diversity.
