What Does "Green" Mean?

There are more and more ads for products described as better for the environment, but what do these claims mean? When you buy a product, how do you know the claims are true?

Vague claims like "EARTH FRIENDLY!" or "RECYCLED CONTENT" don't help you make purchasing decisions. All products have some environmental impact--whether in their manufacture, use, or disposal. Look for labeling that describes specific "green" benefits.

A truly "green" product would be durable, repairable, energy efficient, made with recycled materials, and eventually recyclable. It wouldn't create unnecessary waste, either with too much packaging or by a short useful life. The manufacture, use, disposal, and packaging would have minimal impact on the environment.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has developed guidelines for manufacturers to follow when they market their "green" products. These guidelines can help you make choices that are friendly to the environment.

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