It is easy to attach an “eco-friendly” or “green” label to a product, even if the only thing recyclable in it is the packaging. This act is called greenwashing and it occurs when companies or organisations falsely present themselves as environmentally friendly or sustainable, often through misleading or deceptive marketing tactics, while their actual practices and impact on the environment remain harmful or unchanged. With many making bold claims about eco-friendly goods, consumers or business owners who want to be part of a sustainable supply chain must research the sustainable customs of entities they want to do business with. How do they do that? Here are five ways to spot environmentally conscious companies from those that aren’t.
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Sustainability is no new concept, but the adoption of it is for most businesses. As a result, many companies have yet to fully make their operations sustainable. One reason for this is that in most countries, adopting sustainable practices is not mandatory.
Ideally, you would find a partner that matches your commitment to a sustainable environment, but this is not always feasible. Carefully map out a checklist, asking yourself these questions as a reference in crafting your sustainability barometers:
When setting a standard for sustainability, tone down your expectations and provide wiggle room for considerations. One supplier could be sourcing materials locally but use fossil fuels to process them and simply buy renewable energy certificates (RECs) to offset it. It is like having a grocery list but buying alternatives when ingredients are missing. A checklist can save time and quickly eliminate suppliers or manufacturers that do not meet certain sustainability standards.
Your list of questions offers potential partners an opportunity to expound on their commitments to protect the environment. Hearing more helps you determine which answers are deal-breakers, allowing you to whittle down the companies you want to associate yourself or your organisation with. Here are some example questions to guide you in this part:
It is best to organise your queries into a prequalification questionnaire for documentation. Asking these questions through , virtual interviews or other channels can feel uncomfortable. However, doing so will connect you with the most sustainable partners and help you achieve your environmental aims.
Organisations with environmental consciousness at their forefront actively participate in sustainable programmes, allowing them to secure certifications they can attach to their brands.
One example is Energy Star, which honours organisations with outstanding contributions to the planet. Companies like Andersen Corp., Burton Energy Group, and Consumers Energy are recipients of Partner of the Year environmental labels for their exceptional efforts in protecting the Earth and creating products and services that provide real solutions to climate change.
Using this as a baseline, look for sustainability certification in your supplier or manufacturer. Such labels from reputable organisations or agencies are proof that the company you are looking at has solid and genuine sustainable practices in place.
An environmental management system (EMS) encompasses the rules, plans and practices summarising how an organisation interacts with the environment. Companies must have EMS frameworks to use as guidelines in implementing and tracking environmental performances.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international body that creates these worldwide standards. The latest revision to the EMS is ISO :. A company that passes the evaluation for EMS has an eco-friendly track record and is diligent in managing its impact. It also means it is less likely to be found liable for any environmental negligence.
Not all organisations have an EMS, but you can do business confidently in companies that have one. It is good to have a vote of confidence from the ISO.
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Although organisations self-impose sustainability, governments often have environmental laws that, if broken, will lead to legal consequences. The US, for example, has several laws in place, including the Clean Air Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and the Clean Water Act and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is in charge of handling any violations,such as heavy smoke emissions, materials dumped into a maintenance hole, or coloured discharges on the ground.
Ensure that a business you are interested in partnering with has not been prosecuted for breaking environmental laws. A brief online search with the company’s name may bring up past results for sanctioned offences. Alternatively, you can contact your local environmental agency to inquire about the company.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to an entity’s commitment to conduct business ethically, considering the social, economic and cultural impact alongside environmental consequences. It is closely related to sustainability in that improving workplace diversity can lead to inclusive leaders with higher cultural intelligence able to manage and implement better green policies and strategies.
CSR’s bottom line is “people, planet and profit,” meaning entrepreneurs can and should grow their businesses without harming the Earth or exploiting their employees. You can directly ask the entity what programmes it has to make a difference in its community and the world. A socially responsible entity takes actionable steps to help society and the environment.
Many organisations are choosing sustainability over profits. Such a move has influenced consumer decisions, with many wanting to buy products from sustainable suppliers or manufacturers.
Many who do not understand sustainability in action readily claim they sell ethical products. That’s why you must double-check which brands are truly eco-friendly. Take steps to find companies that share the goal of protecting the environment.
Featured image: Markus Spiske/Unsplash
In an age where sustainability is at the forefront of consumer choices, eco-friendly cleaning agents have become essential for both households and businesses. This article highlights the top 10 suppliers of eco-friendly cleaning agents, detailing their offerings and why they stand out in the industry.
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Seventh Generation is a well-known name in eco-friendly cleaning products. The company emphasizes plant-based ingredients and non-toxic formulations, ensuring that their products are safe for both the environment and users. They also adopt sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials for packaging.
From laundry detergents to surface cleaners, Seventh Generation offers a wide variety of cleaning agents that cater to various cleaning needs while maintaining environmental integrity.
Method is recognized for its innovative and stylish product designs that appeal to the modern consumer. The company is committed to sustainability, utilizing biodegradable ingredients and using 100% recycled plastic for packaging.
Method’s lineup includes all-purpose cleaners, dish soaps, and bathroom cleaners that not only effectively tackle grime but also come in delightful scents. Their focus on aesthetics makes cleaning an enjoyable experience.
Ecover stands out for its commitment to developing products that are good for the planet. They utilize plant-based and biodegradable ingredients, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The company operates in a carbon-neutral facility and places high importance on sustainability.
Ecover’s products include laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and dishwasher tablets, all designed to deliver powerful cleaning without harsh chemicals, making them safe for both users and their surroundings.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day offers a range of products derived from natural ingredients, with a strong focus on aromatic scents. Their formulations are designed to be effective while being gentle on the environment.
Their product range includes multi-surface cleaners, hand soaps, and laundry detergents, all crafted to provide a fresh and clean atmosphere. The brand’s catalog is thoughtful and appealing, promoting a cleaner home routine.
BioKleen’s dedication to providing plant-based cleaning solutions sets it apart in the eco-friendly market. The company emphasizes the use of safe and effective ingredients, free from harmful chemicals.
Offering products from laundry to dishwashing and general household cleaning, BioKleen meets the diverse cleaning needs of consumers, all while promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle.
Green Works, a brand from Clorox, offers eco-friendly cleaning solutions made with natural ingredients. They maintain a balance between powerful cleaning and environmentally responsible formulations.
Green Works includes multi-surface cleaners, glass cleaners, and dish soaps, making it easy for consumers to find effective cleaning products that align with their sustainable values.
Thrive Market is a unique supplier that provides a variety of eco-friendly cleaning agents alongside other health-conscious products. They prioritize quality and sustainable sourcing, offering consumers a one-stop-shop experience.
Thrive Market’s house brand includes a range of cleaning products that are not only affordable but also environmentally friendly, making it accessible for anyone looking to make greener choices.
Attitude stands out with its eco-responsible philosophy that emphasizes sustainability and transparency in ingredient sourcing. Their products are made with non-toxic, plant-based elements that minimize environmental impact.
With offerings ranging from baby-safe cleaning products to air fresheners, Attitude covers a wider array of cleaning needs, catering to various customer segments focused on health and safety.
Planet Eco focuses on providing innovative eco-friendly cleaning solutions that meet the demands of environmentally conscious consumers. Their commitment to reducing plastic waste is notable in their packaging choices.
With a variety of cleaning agents for home, laundry, and personal care, Planet Eco is dedicated to offering effective cleaning solutions that are perfect for modern homes.
Simple Green is recognized for its simple, effective cleaning solutions that are safe for both users and the environment. They offer a variety of concentrated formulas that reduce waste and packaging needs.
From general-purpose cleaners to specialized products like upholstery cleaners and degreasers, Simple Green covers a plethora of cleaning requirements while maintaining eco-friendly practices.
Choosing eco-friendly cleaning agents is essential in making a positive impact on the environment. The suppliers highlighted in this article offer a variety of options that not only clean effectively but also prioritize sustainability. By opting for products from these top suppliers, consumers can help reduce their ecological footprint while enjoying a clean, healthy living space.
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