08/20/2025
CONFUSING PRODUCT CERTIFICATIONS
by Barbara Roberts
In trying to live as sustainably as possible, I find myself cross eyed at the sheer number of product certifications when shopping. And some products have more than one certification, but may not have the one most important to you! How many of us take the time to translate all the acronyms and logos every time we purchase something?
But wait! I came across this wonderful article that is a handy dictionary of certifications that might make sustainable shopping less stressful. To access the entire "dictionary", click on this link:
https://www.treehugger.com/the-treehugger-guide-to-sustainable-certifications-5119483
But to get started, here are some certifications that might be of most use to you every day:
Certified B Corporation - means they must achieve a minimum score on the organization’s B Impact Assessment, which includes what they call a “rigorous assessment” of the company’s impact on environment, workers, community and customers.
1% for the Planet - fund a diversity of environmental organizations by connecting them with companies that promise to give the equivalent of 1 percent of their gross sales (which can be money, in-kind, and promotional support) directly to environmental charities. NOTE: this does not guarantee that company's products are eco-friendly.
USDA Organic - The United States Department of Agriculture manages the USDA Organic certification. It details the requirements for the types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers that are allowed to be used on crops that can be labeled USDA Organic.
LEED - United States Green Building Council runs LEED certification, which aims “help people, and the communities and cities they reside in—safely, healthily and sustainably thrive.” The certification looks at the health and environmental impacts and social benefits of materials used for construction or reconstruction.
GreenGuard - The majority of chemical exposures most people have are via the air in their own homes, offices, or schools, GreenGuard exists to certify products with lower Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) — since VOCs off-gas into the air, contributing to poor indoor air quality.
Leaping Bunny - Over 2,000 companies are Leaping Bunny Certified, which indicates that not only is the final product not tested on animals, but no ingredient, formulation, or product from a third-party supplier is either. It covers cosmetics and household products. Note: does not guarantee the product is vegan.
GOTS - This widely used certification has two levels: Labelled organic for products that contain 95% or more organic material, and another for those that have 70% to 94% organic material, in which case they have to disclose the percentage on the GOTS label. The label certifies the entire process the material travels through, not just the final product.
OEKO-TEX - This widely used certification has two levels: Labelled organic for products that contain 95% or more organic material, and another for those that have 70% to 94% organic material, in which case they have to disclose the percentage on the GOTS label. The label certifies the entire process the material travels through, not just the final product.
Please check out the article for full definitions of these certifications and so many others.
BTW, here is also a handy grocery store carton labeling translation for eggs:
Cage Free - egg laying hens are not confined to battery cages, but this is no guarantee that the hens ever have access to the outdoors. They may still be packed together inside.
Free Range - egg laying hens are allowed to roam freely outside, but third party certification ensures that they have a decent amount of outdoor space. Look for: "Certified Humane" or "Greener World" third party certifications.
Pasture Raised - egg laying hens have the most time outdoors, but also look for the third party certification for these as well.
As far as grocery store eggs, Pasture Raised are the most ethical eggs to buy.
Happy shopping!
