Sustainability is becoming more important to people shopping online, and for a good reason. We need to be conscientious about how we treat our planet if we want it to be around for future generations. That's why more and more people are interested in buying sustainably.
It’s not easy to know how to buy sustainably. With so many different products on the market, it's hard to determine which ones are sustainable and which ones aren't.
Sustainable Shopping Made Simple
That's why we've put together 10 criteria that you should look for when trying to buy sustainably! By using these guidelines, you'll make informed decisions about the products you purchase and help reduce your environmental impact. For the first five head over to How to Buy Sustainably: Everyday 10 Criteria To Look For - PART ONE and then come back here!
6. Made from Recycled Material
Products made from recycled materials help reduce waste and save resources.
Meet award-winning Sheets & Giggles.
Sheets & Giggles
Sheets & Giggles comforter filling is made from 50% eucalyptus and 50% polyester made from recycled plastic bottles. Their T-Shirts are made from 25% recycled polyester from post-consumer water bottles. Their mattress contains a base of up to 1,032 tightly packed recycled US steel coils.
And, nearly all of their bedding products ship in plastic-free, 100% recyclable cardboard boxes.
You cant do better than that!
7. Recyclable Packaging
Products with recyclable packaging can be easily recycled and don't create any waste.
Check out Bee Naturals Shampoo.
Bee Naturals Shampoo
The Bee Naturals shampoo comes in a recyclable paper based bottle made from post-consumer recycled content. The bottle is also printed with soy ink, made from soy oil.
This shampoo is good for the environment and gentle on your hair. It's also free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals.
8. Refill Options
When you buy a product with refill options, you're reducing the waste from single-use containers and the impact of product transportation. Look for refillable options with items such as toothpaste, shampoo, and laundry detergent.
Three Main Liquid Hand Soap
Three Main Liquid Hand Soap comes in an aluminum pump bottle that can be refilled again and again and then recycled at the end. This soap is made with natural ingredients and is free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals.
The soap is also vegan and cruelty-free, and it comes in a variety of scents.
9. Carbon Neutral Programs
Even when companies implement the most rigid sustainability programs, there is always going to be some impact on the environment. That's where carbon-neutral programs come into play. Companies can offset their emissions by supporting programs such as renewable energy projects.
Take for example Ethique Conditioner.
Ethique Conditioner
Ethique is a carbon-neutral company that makes solid beauty bars. Their conditioner bars are made with natural ingredients and are gentle on your hair.
It's also vegan and cruelty-free, and it comes in a selection of fragrances.
10. Dermatologist Tested
Look for products that have been dermatologist-tested. This means that the product has been tested and found safe for human skin and that it doesn't contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to your skin. The reference product we use for this criterion is Nature Clean Fabric Softener.
Nature Clean Fabric Softener
Nature Clean fabric softener is a safe and effective alternative for sensitive skin. It's fragrance-free, dye-free, and made without perfumes.
This product is also U.S.D.A. certified biobased, which is environmentally preferable. It is hypoallergenic, free of animal testing, and completely natural.
Bottom Line
When you’re looking for sustainable products, it is important to consider the environment, your health, and animal welfare. Using these ten criteria as a guide, you can be sure to find products that are good for you and the planet.
All these products and many more can be found on our Google Chrome Extension: