Product specifications: looking for an environmentally friendly product?

 

Retailers seldom offer or have any information on the sustainability credentials of products they sell. In Australia, few products carry eco-specifications or labelling and no regulations currently exist to enforce this. When buying furniture, building materials and products, go directly to the manufacturing source to identify a product's eco-credentials. Visit their website to gain information and get them to fax or email a verification. Here's what to ask about products you are interested in:

• Is it made from sustainably sourced, renewable or recycled materials?
• Can it be recycled?
• Does it have high embodied energy (i.e., take a lot of energy to make and transport)? Look for recycled and other low embodied energy options where possible.
• With which varnishes and finishes has it been treated, and are they low-toxin and low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds)? Is waste creation minimised by the manufacturer and is waste disposed of in a responsible way?
• For appliances and other electrical and plumbing products: What wattage or rate of water flow does it use? What efficiency rating does it have? Look for 4- to 6-star rated appliances and low wattage home electrical gadgets.
• Does this product carry certification that it is an eco-product?
• Does it meet the Australian Standard? Ensure all materials and products meet Australian Standards, especially imported goods.
• Is it locally made? As far as possible, look for locally sourced and made materials so they haven't chalked up an additional carbon footprint by travelling long distances.

Also visit the EcoSpecifier and Good Environmental Choice websites.

Note that the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Council) regulates "green washing" (i.e., false claims of environmental responsibility) through the Green Marketing Act and the Trade Practices Act to assess the claims of manufacturers, suppliers and advertisers, among others.