Standards & Eco Jargon
When choosing products for our store, these are the main criteria that we consider.
First off, it has got to be saleable, there must be a demand. If it is funky, practical, attractive or tastes good then we want it!
It has to meet at least one of the criteria below in addition to meeting safety standards. inspiring, functional, stylish, and of course eco friendly in some way – could be it’s energy saving, or in the materials it is made from. Here are some of the criteria that we use:
Energy Saving
Using this product will cut down the energy you use in everyday life, either compared to a non-energy saving alternative eg the eco kettle, or will help to reduce the energy you might be wasting elsewhere eg standby savers etc.
Recyclable
The materials that this is made from can be recycled at the end of its useful life, so conserving valuable resources.
Biodegradable / Degradable
The materials in this product will revert back to nature at the end of its useful life and so will not contribute to landfill problems.
Recycled
This product is made from recycled materials. Recycled products save raw materials, energy, landfill space, and makes you feel good!
Sustainable Sources
Reduce the use of non-renewable resources, minimises environmental impact, and relates people with the natural environment. You can use the materials safe in the knowledge that they will be replenished.
Re-Usable
At the end of its useful life this product can be refilled, or used for another purpose.
Low Carbon Footprint
Taking all factors into account – its production, its use, how it gets here, embodied energy, this product does not produce a huge amount of CO2
Low Carbon Emissions
Using this product emits low carbon.
Recycled Packaging
This product comes in packaging that is made from recycled materials and may be further recycled.
Eco-friendly products are those that reduce the environmental impact associated with their production, use and disposal.
Cost Saving
Using this will save you money when compared to a non-eco alternative.
Organic products are produced according to certain production standards, meaning they are produced without the use of conventional pesticides, artificial fertilisers, human waste, or sewage sludge, and that they were processed without ionising radiation.
Fair Trade
Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. By requiring companies to pay sustainable prices (which must never fall lower than the market price), Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.
Water Saving
This will save water – cuts down the amount of water eg water butts, tap magic, shower timer