Look to greener labels
Friday, May 22nd, 2009When it comes to making better shopping decision you first have to think not only for the planet and its well-being, you have to look to your health and your family’s health as well. Here are a few labels to look for when buying more green.
1. Energy Star: This label shows that the appliance or other product you are buying is energy-efficient. There are guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy for appliance, heating and cooling systems, lighting, roof products, windows and even doors and other items. Be sure when buying an item you look for this label.
2. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): This label helps to set the standards for responsible forest management and certifies that come from certain woodland areas.
3. Green Guard Indoor Air Quality: This label insures that the products you are buying will release low VOCs into the air and the emissions let off from adhesives, appliance, ceilings, insulation, paint, etc. These VOCs are low enough that they won’t cause significant damage to your lungs or your health.
4. Green Seal: This label maintains environmental standards for products like paints, cleaners, and even alternative vehicles. When you look to new products look to ones that have the green seal of approval.
5. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): The United States Green Building Council rates buildings, and homes in categories such as water, energy, material conservation and air quality within those structures. And whatever number that structure scores is their green level of certification in the form of silver, gold or platinum. Adding certain materials to your home that are greener and more eco-friendly can and will raise you green level of certification.
*Natural and Sustainable Living Tip: Don’t be afraid to display what you believe in and your causes on your car, your house or even on your clothes. You may end up encouraging someone else to change their habits to eco-friendly ones.
