5 Signs of a Green Company

With more and more consumers becoming conscious of the effect on the environment of their lifestyle choices, the demand for green products is growing in intensity. While many companies are also behaving in green manners and altering their manufacturing methods to more eco-friendly options, there are still many organizations that have not taken the much needed steps to progress towards a healthier, greener environment for all. Because of this, green shoppers need to be aware of the small differences that progressively green companies are making that could add up to big differences. Many of these differences are listed below.

1. Products made from recycled materials: Perhaps the most commonly taken step towards green company principles, the use of recycled materials can greatly reduce the amount of waste clogging land fills today. While 100% recycled material materials are the ideal option, products made with at least 80% recycled materials still show an admirably green effort on the part of the manufacturer. Most companies who are consciously investing in an effort to use recycled materials will print this information next to a recycling symbol on their products.

2. Less/ thinner plastic: In addition to using recycled materials for products, companies that have altered their product design to include less/thinner plastics are also helping the environment as well. This greener package styling is most relevant to plastic bottle designs, including beverage bottles, shampoo containers, and lotion dispensers. Since this is a relatively new approach towards going green, many of these bottle designs will be publicized through a statement such as "new, greener bottle design" on the label of the container.

3. Green chemistry: Products made in environmentally responsible manners should adhere to the principles of green chemistry as much as possible. While the phrase "green chemistry" can be practiced through any (or all) of these principles, it is often practically displayed on product labels through statements such as "paraben-free" or made without such-in-such chemicals. Green chemistry practices are especially important in the manufacturing of beauty products such as nail polishes, cosmetics, and lotions.

4. Green energy: Whether they're using energy efficient light bulbs, harnessing solar or wind power, or using a more eco-friendly dishwasher, companies that have altered their energy use to adopt more environmentally sustainable ways are certainly taking admirable steps toward creating a greener world. While some companies will advertise their green energy changes on product labels or in restaurant fliers, most of these energy changes are publicized through websites.

5. Green donations: Although not a direct change in the manufacturing processes of various businesses, donations to environmental preservation funds are another great way that companies can show their commitment towards creating a greener earth. Again, most brands will advertise such donations on their websites.