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The Role of Certifications in Combating Greenwashing

Categories Greenwashing

At Change Plastic for Good, we know that, as consumers become more and more environmentally conscious, some companies engage in misleading actions by advertising the environmental benefits of a product, service, or company practices. In this context, the role of certifications in combating greenwashing simply cannot be overstated, as authentic credentials offer a verifiable means for companies to validate their green practices and for consumers to distinguish between genuine efforts and greenwashing.

Common Certifications to Look For

ISO 14001 Certificate

A notable certification is the ISO 14001, granted by the International Organization for Standardization. To earn this certification, companies must establish, maintain, and improve an environmental management system that conforms to the established criteria.

It requires a commitment not just to compliance with legal requirements but also to ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing environmental performance. This makes ISO 14001 a significant indicator of a company’s serious engagement in environmental preservation.

EU Ecolabel

One of the most well-recognised certifications is the EU Ecolabel. It is awarded to products and services that meet high environmental standards throughout their life cycle. That life cycle can include:

  • Raw material extraction
  • Production
  • Distribution
  • Disposal

Companies must demonstrate reduced environmental impact concerning factors such as energy usage, emissions, and the use of hazardous chemicals. The rigorous standards ensure that attaining the EU Ecolabel is indicative of a genuine commitment to environmental sustainability.

Even though this certificate is a European one, many companies export their products all over the world, making the EU Ecolabel an important certification that can contribute against greenwashing even outside of the European Union.

B Corp Certification

B Corps are companies that meet the highest standards of verified environmental and social performance, legal accountability, and public transparency. This certification is arduous to achieve, necessitating a score of at least 80 out of 200 in the B Impact Assessment, which evaluates the overall positive impact of the company.

For those interested in the sustainability of plastics, Change Plastic for Good can help guide you down the right path. Companies that integrate our polymer in their products are contributing to environmental solutions. Our BDP polymer ensures that plastic, rubber, foam, and synthetic fabric products get accelerated breakdown times, decreasing their time in the landfill. If you have a product and are serious about going green and making an impactful choice for a better world, contact us through our web form and learn more about our BDP polymer.