HOW TO IDENTIFY TRULY SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS

When searching for products that are kind to our planet, it is important to look beyond labels and learn the simple green methods that support a product's planet-friendly qualities. Eco-friendly items use natural materials and often contain reused or renewable materials - components that lower waste and promote a greener environment.

Green business practices try to cut carbon footprints through wise resource decisions, such as plastic-free wrapping and reducing harm during a product's lifespan. This also includes the supply chain, production techniques, and the company's green practices, such as using sustainable energy.

For instance, at L'Envers, every garment is thoughtfully crafted with organic cotton or natural wool and the most zero-waste processes we can to reflect our commitment to a sustainable future.

If you are keen on helping the environment, choosing products with green features and certifications is the way to go. Let's go over some of the key certifications you should keep in mind!

When looking for eco-friendly products, certifications give confidence that an item aligns with green and fair guidelines. Trusted certifications show that a product follows strict rules for eco-care and fairness, from material choice to creation. Here are some important certifications to look out for:

- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Stands for textiles produced with organic cotton and other natural materials without dangerous chemicals.

- Fair Trade Certified: This certification means that the company has fair pay and a safe working environment in the supply chain.

- B Corp Certification: Signals that a company is highly responsible for business sustainability, such as taking measures to lower the carbon footprint.

- Cradle to Cradle Certified: Looks at the entire lifecycle of product life, particularly things like recycled materials, renewable power, and plastic-free design.

These labels point to corporate sustainability and environment-friendly goods created with very low carbon emissions, zero waste processes, and renewable resources. At L’Envers, we try to reflect these beliefs in every garment we produce. For example, all of the cotton yarn we purchase is GOTS certified. Our strong commitment to sustainable clothing is evident in our sourcing, packaging, and production methods.

Buying eco-friendly products greatly supports the planet, so consider these tips to help you make responsible choices and find truly eco-friendly products.

Look for Certifications

Seek out sustainability labels like GOTS, Fair Trade Certified, or B Corp. These show the business follows green practices. Such labels mean items use natural materials, have no harmful chemicals, and have plastic-free, eco-friendly packaging.

Evaluate Materials and Resources

Green products often use recycled or renewable materials like organic cotton and natural wool. These cut down on plastic waste and help the environment by lowering pollution and reducing waste during the product's life.

Think about the Carbon Footprint

Businesses focused on going green try to lower their carbon levels. They choose renewable energy sources and create products with less impact on nature. These actions decrease the overall harm to the planet. At L'Envers, all orders are fulfilled directly from the knitting atelier to avoid unnecessary transportation to a logistics provider.

Check the Supply Chain and Production Methods

Responsible companies look at their whole supply chain. They care about where materials come from, treat workers fairly, and produce goods in a way that respects the environment. When you buy sustainable items from such companies, it helps support fair labor and keeps the economy steady. Learn more about what we do here.

Be Aware of Greenwashing

Some businesses claim they help the environment, but might not use real green methods. Real green products have clear information and simple rules. It's advisable to see if the company gives details about the materials they use, the production process, and the impact on nature.

Thinking about the environmental impact of these factors helps you make green choices. Each choice matters to save the planet for future generations!

- Do Your Research: Use resources like Good On You to find comprehensive ratings on brands’ sustainability practices.

- Engage with Brands: Don’t hesitate to reach out to companies with questions about their sourcing and manufacturing processes—transparency is a hallmark of genuine sustainability.

- Choose Local When Possible: Supporting local businesses not only reduces your carbon footprint but also helps strengthen local economies.

- Invest in Quality: Prioritize purchasing fewer high-quality items over fast fashion alternatives that quickly degrade.

Identifying truly sustainable products requires diligence and a critical eye. By focusing on material sourcing, certifications, production processes, durability, packaging, and social responsibility, consumers can make informed choices that align with their values.

Products that use natural resources, and recycled and renewable materials, contribute to both environmental sustainability and social equity. By supporting companies that prioritize sustainable practices—such as eco-friendly and sustainable product design, ethical hiring practices, and reduced carbon emissions—consumers drive demand for positive change across industries.

At L'Envers, we’re dedicated to creating timeless, quality, eco-friendly pieces prioritizing sustainable practices, from ethically sourced materials to thoughtful production methods.

By opting for sustainable choices and finding sustainable products (a challenge in itself given the prevalence of greenwashing), each of us helps make the world a little better.