Labels & Logos

About this Section

Environmental labeling can be confusing. There are many environmental claims made by manufacturers. General claims like “green”, "environmentally friendly” or “recyclable” have very little meaning. General environmental claims that are not substantiated are often called “green washing."

A number of third party organizations conduct life cycle assessments on goods produced by various manufacturers.  These assessments help to determine the environmental impacts of a product or service from its design through to production and final disposal. Goods and services that pass the organization’s assessment are allowed to affix an environmental label on their product. This label lets consumers/purchasers know that the product claims have been substantiated.

A number of well known third party labels that are often requested by purchasing professionals to help with the selection of sustainable products are noted as subtabs under the Labels & Logos menu.