'Green washing' - our guide to help you choose genuine eco products
As buying green takes hold, we are seeing more companies being accused of 'greenwashing' (making false or misleading marketing claims about how green the product is that you’re buying).
Read on for some key indicators that products might not be as green as they seem...
Buzz words
Unfortunately there are no strict regulations for what constitutes a ‘green’ or ‘eco-friendly’ product so unless they are accompanied with backed up claims (e.g. made from 70% recycled waste), then best not to put too much stock in buzz words. Our eco-friendly products come with clear sustainability credentials - like our 100% recycled refill pads, 100% recycled sticky notes, or 100% recyclable glue sticks.
Images of nature
If a company is looking to push an eco message then images of trees, greenery and blue skies will all help confirm that message, but unless there are substantiated claims to their ‘green-ness’ you can’t be sure what looks green, actually is green.
The bigger picture
Companies may promote one (verified) aspect of their green message, but skim over murkier things happening in the background. A good example is plant-based milk; they have lower carbon emissions than cow’s milk but can cause environmental harm in others ways such as through their use of pesticides/excessive amounts of water.
Independent verification
Companies sometimes use their own icons to indicate a green range but these are for design purposes only. Those that have been independently verified by a third party will carry a logo to prove it and these are the ones you want to look out for, such as Fair Trade accredited coffee or chocolate. Check out ecolabelindex.com for a full list of independent verifiers.
Our green choices for your workplace are exactly that - so whatever you need, rest assured the products you buy are ethical and are a help in the fight against climate change.
