What to Look For When Purchasing Eco-Conscious Products

Note: This article provides general information on identifying sustainable and eco-conscious products. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, sustainability claims can vary. We encourage consumers to research brands, consult trusted third-party certifications, and make choices that align with their personal values, environmental goals, and means.

In a world where environmental concerns are growing, consumers are increasingly mindful of their purchasing choices. According to a Nielsen study, 73% of global shoppers are willing to change their habits to reduce environmental impact. But with terms like “eco-friendly” and “green” plastered across products, how can you tell which claims are legitimate? True sustainability goes beyond marketing buzzwords — it involves ethical sourcing, minimal waste, and thoughtful design. Understanding what makes a product genuinely eco-conscious empowers consumers to support brands that align with their values, fostering a healthier planet with every purchase. Let’s explore how to spot the real deal.

Prioritize Sustainable Materials

Green products are defined by their incorporation of sustainable materials that minimize the environmental burden. Examples include flowers packed in biodegradable paper as opposed to plastic or seeds grown without toxic pesticides demonstrating an urge to avoid waste and encourage organic farming. They help preserve natural resources and reduce plastic waste in landfills. 

Customers can decide on ecologically sound products by looking for stamps like “Fair Trade” or “Certified Organic.” These ensure that the product was made or grown using fair and environmentally safe methods. Further, think about the whole life of the product. Are the materials recyclable or compostable? Does the company value local procurement or minimal-impact shipping? These things reflect a focus on sustainability.

As a flower shop owner, I’ve seen increasing customer interest in eco-friendly products. More customers are seeking out flowers and plants that align with their environmental values. By offering these options, businesses not only meet consumer demand but also contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world. Providing such choices also helps differentiate the shop in a competitive market, creating a loyal customer base that values sustainability.

Cary Engle, President, Englewood Florist

Seek Transparency and Certifications

A truly eco-conscious product is all about transparency; knowing where the materials come from, how it’s made, and its impact on the planet. The best brands don’t just slap on words like “green” or “natural,” and call it a day; they back up their claims with real data and third-party certifications like USDA Organic or FSC.

To spot the real deal, check labels for trusted certifications, read up on the brand’s sustainability efforts (from third parties), and see if they’re upfront about their sourcing and production. If a company is vague or overly flashy with its eco-claims, chances are it’s more marketing than mission.

Chris Burdick, Co-Founder, Chief Product Officer, FairKiwi

Look for Circularity and Disposal Info

For me, the biggest indicator of an eco-conscious product is circularity—it’s not just about using recycled materials but ensuring the product can be reused, composted, or truly break down without harming the environment. In packaging, for example, I always look for materials that don’t just claim to be “eco-friendly” but have a clear end-of-life solution—whether it’s compostable mailers or packaging that can be repurposed instead of trashed.

The best way consumers can spot genuinely sustainable products? Dig deeper than marketing buzzwords. I always check for third-party certifications like FSC or BPI, but beyond that, I look at what brands actually say about disposal. If they don’t tell you how to responsibly discard their product, chances are, it’s not as sustainable as it seems.

Yangyang Li, Co-Operator, ForestPackage

Identify Certifications and Labels

What defines an eco-conscious product is the use of sustainable materials in the manufacturing process, which help reduce resource depletion and waste. These materials are either renewable, biodegradable, or repurposed, making them a better choice for the environment. For example, products made from recycled plastics help divert waste from landfills and oceans while reducing the demand for virgin plastic production.

The easiest way to identify eco-conscious products is by looking for certifications and labels from trusted organizations, such as Fair Trade, Blue Angel, or Energy Star. These certifications verify that a product meets strict environmental and ethical standards. You can also check out reviews, but be mindful of misleading sustainability claims.

Even Fusdahl Hulleberg, Chief Marketing Officer, Recharge Health

Check for Low-GWP Refrigerant

In the HVAC industry, we aim for low environmental impact, especially in terms of refrigerants used. Modern eco-friendly HVAC products, like heat pumps, often use more environmentally friendly refrigerants such as R-32, which have lower global warming potential (GWP) compared to older refrigerants. To identify these products, consumers should look for those labeled with “low-GWP refrigerant” and check the product specifications for the type of refrigerant used. Additionally, products that carry the ENERGY STAR label are a reliable indicator of energy efficiency and eco-conscious design.

Ryan Camp, Owner & President, Harrington Air Conditioning

Demand Transparency and Certifications

As a travel and lifestyle influencer who is frequently gifted products, I’ve learned that not every brand labeled as “eco-conscious” is truly sustainable—greenwashing is everywhere. Many companies use vague terms like “natural,” “green,” or “environmentally friendly” without real accountability. That’s why one key characteristic of a genuinely eco-conscious product is transparency in sourcing and production—a brand that is truly sustainable will openly share where its materials come from, how they are sourced, and the impact of its manufacturing process.

For consumers, the best way to spot real sustainability versus greenwashing is to look for third-party certifications rather than relying on marketing language. Trustworthy certifications like OEKO-TEX, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), or B Corp indicate that a brand is held to strict environmental and ethical standards. Checking ingredient lists and materials is also key—natural fibers, biodegradable packaging, and non-toxic ingredients are signs of genuine sustainability.

Beyond the product itself, a truly eco-conscious company will have sustainable business practices—this could mean offering refills, using recycled materials, running take-back programs, or ensuring ethical labor practices. Brands that prioritize longevity over fast consumption are more likely to be genuinely sustainable.

Greenwashing makes it harder for consumers to navigate sustainability claims, but the best way to cut through the noise is to do a quick background check—read labels, research company values, and prioritize quality over convenience. Small, intentional choices add up, and by supporting truly transparent brands, consumers can push the industry toward more ethical and sustainable practices.

Susye Weng-Reeder, CEO | Google Verified Public Figure | Author | Creator, Susye Weng-Reeder, LLC

Choose Durable and High-Quality Materials

One key characteristic of an eco-conscious product is material transparency—knowing exactly where materials come from, how they are sourced, and their impact on the environment. Truly sustainable products are made from responsibly sourced, biodegradable, or recycled materials, with minimal processing to reduce waste and emissions.

Consumers can identify eco-conscious products by looking for third-party certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for fabrics, or LWG (Leather Working Group) for responsibly tanned leather. Brands that prioritize sustainability will also disclose their sourcing practices and production methods openly.

Another telltale sign? Longevity. A well-crafted product designed to last for years—rather than one meant for quick disposal—is inherently more sustainable. Whether it’s a vegetable-tanned leather ottoman, a recycled wood dining table, or organic cotton bedding, choosing durable, high-quality materials over trendy, disposable alternatives is one of the best ways to shop sustainably.

Marios Pitsillidis, COO, Limassolian Leathers Ltd

Use Natural and Biodegradable Ingredients

In pest control, we use ingredients that are both effective in managing pest problems and environmentally friendly. Traditional pest control products often rely on synthetic chemicals that can harm the environment, humans, and pets, sometimes leading to toxic residue in homes or on the surrounding environment. In contrast, eco-friendly pest control products are formulated with natural, biodegradable ingredients, which break down more easily in the environment and pose less risk to non-target species, such as beneficial insects or wildlife. 

Eco-friendly solutions include substances like essential oils (e.g., peppermint, lavender, citronella), neem oil, diatomaceous earth, or pyrethrins, which are naturally occurring compounds that can repel or eliminate pests effectively without the harmful side effects of synthetic chemicals. These products are also safer to use around children, pets, and plants, making them ideal for households that are concerned about health and safety. 

Consumers can best identify these products by looking for specific indicators on the packaging. Many eco-conscious pest control solutions will feature labels such as “non-toxic”, “organic”, or “green-certified”, which signal that the product has been made with environmentally safe practices. Some eco-friendly products also carry certifications from trusted organizations like the EPA’s Safer Choice label or OMRI, which ensure that the products meet strict safety and environmental standards. 

Consumers should pay attention to ingredient lists and packaging. Eco-friendly products usually provide transparency, clearly outlining the ingredients used, so homeowners can make an informed decision based on their preferences and environmental concerns. Also, look for products that mention sustainable sourcing or biodegradable formulas, indicating the company’s commitment to minimizing its environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle.

Jason Napolski, President & CEO, A-Tex Pest Management Inc.

Look for Energy Star Certification

Products like heat pumps are designed to use less energy to provide the same level of comfort as traditional heating and cooling systems, making them more environmentally friendly. Heat pumps work by transferring heat from one place to another, rather than generating it by burning fuel, which leads to lower carbon emissions.

Consumers can best identify eco-conscious products by looking for certifications like ENERGY STAR, which ensures that the product meets high energy efficiency standards. Additionally, reviewing the SEER rating for cooling and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor for heating can help consumers gauge the efficiency of heat pumps. A higher SEER and HSPF mean the system is more efficient, which translates to less energy usage and a reduced environmental impact.

Lisa Purvins, Owner, Pro-Tech Heating & Cooling

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