Too Many Green Labeling Choices Means Greater Confusion for Consumers
It has been reported that ULC Standards has acquired TerraChoice, the managers of Canada’s EcoLogo program. This consolidation might make it easier for consumers to differentiate between green claims—so as to compare apples to apples.
Currently, the EcoLogo program covers more than 7,000 products in 80 categories—with 70 different standards.
Simplicity is the key to any certification and for ease of understanding. Until we get to just a handful of green certifications and labels, manufacturers will continue their greenwashing claims and obfuscate their actual compliance to green initiatives.
An educated consumer is the greatest weapon against false claims, but too many labels will make the entire process into a joke. How about a grading system- A through F—like used in most schools. You can add a plus or minus beside the grade to help draw more attention to detail, if so desired. But it would be a simple system that would work for most comparisons.
Here’s to simplicity.. and a greener tomorrow, today.
