We’re not complainers, we’re do-good-ers. At GreenerGoods, our goal is to give specific, actionable, and relevant feedback to encourage sustainable practices within the 200+ brands in our database. Consider yourself a consultant for the climate, reviewing products against metrics like presence of naturally-derived ingredients, use of sustainable packaging, supply chain transparency, and/or implementation of a recycling program.
Passionate about the planet, but need a debrief on how to review products? This guide gives a bite-sized overview on how to spot the sustainable stand-outs from the green-washing wannabes, so you can start reviewing with confidence.
Naturally-Derived Ingredients
What does naturally-derived mean?
Naturally-derived means that ingredients and/or materials are sourced from nature. It is important to note that this term can fall victim to greenwashing, so it is best to look for products with ingredients that have sustainable certifications. Look for labels with NPA-Certified, USDA Organic, or ECOCERT, among others.
What are some examples of naturally-derived ingredients?
Why are naturally-derived ingredients important?
Are there any good resources for discovering brands with natural ingredients?
How should I give feedback on presence of naturally-derived ingredients?
Sustainable Packaging
What does sustainable packaging mean? What are examples of sustainable and unsustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging can take many forms, but it is generally any type of packaging designed to reduce waste and conserve resources. Packaging could be biodegradable (meaning it can be broken down naturally), recyclable (paper, cardboard, glass), reusable (reusable bags, bottles, containers), or minimalist (using the lest amount of material possible).
Why is sustainable packaging important?
What are examples of brands that use sustainable packaging?
How should I give feedback on sustainable packaging?
Supply Chain Transparency
What is a supply chain and what is supply chain transparency?
A supply chain is any entity, activity, or resource involved to produce, distribute, and deliver a product. Supply chain transparency is when a company knows and communicates this information to its consumers.
Why is supply chain transparency important?
What information should supply chain transparency include?
What’s an example of supply chain transparency?
How should I give feedback on supply chain transparency?
Recycling/Refill Program
What is a recycling program? What is a refill program?
A recycling program is when a company collects used products, and then processes and re-uses the product in some way. A refill program is when a company sells products with re-usable packaging and allows customers to purchase a refill for their product, rather than buying an entirely new one.
Why are recycling programs important?
What’s an example of a brand that implements a recycling or refill program?
How should I give feedback on a lack of recycling/refill program?
While this is not an exhaustive resource, it is a starting point for writing constructive and actionable feedback. Happy reviewing!
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