I try to list only organic items.
There are some items that although they are not "organic" they still meet a "green" criteria.
What makes a product green (in my opinion)?
-ecologically benign
-socially beneficial
-financially viable
-certifications
-recycled, recyclable and sustainable materials
-zero tolerance for products with toxins like BPA and lead
-environmentally friendly production processes (i.e. use of alternative energy, minimal waste and by products)
-socially responsible business practices (fair trade, no animal testing)
-energy/water efficiancy of product
-minimal packaging
-end of life disposal/recycled/reused
-socially beneficial
-financially viable
-certifications
-recycled, recyclable and sustainable materials
-zero tolerance for products with toxins like BPA and lead
-environmentally friendly production processes (i.e. use of alternative energy, minimal waste and by products)
-socially responsible business practices (fair trade, no animal testing)
-energy/water efficiancy of product
-minimal packaging
-end of life disposal/recycled/reused
So what does organic mean?
Organic refers to the way agricultural products—food and fiber—are grown and processed. Organic food production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers. Organic foods are minimally processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation to maintain the integrity of the food.
What does "certified organic" mean?
"Certified Organic" means the item has been grown according to strict uniform standards that are verified by independent state or private organizations. Certification includes inspections of farm fields and processing facilities, detailed record keeping, and periodic testing of soil and water to ensure that growers and handlers are meeting the standards which have been set.
Can any type of agricultural product become certified organic?
Yes, any agricultural product that meets third-party or state certification requirements may be considered organic. Organic foods are becoming available in an impressive variety, including pasta, prepared sauces, frozen juices, frozen meals, milk, ice cream and frozen novelties, cereals, meat, poultry, breads, soups, chocolate, cookies, beer, wine, vodka and more. These foods, in order to be certified organic, have all been grown and processed according to organic standards and must maintain a high level of quality. Organic fiber products, too, have moved beyond T-shirts, and include bed and bath linens, tablecloths, napkins, cosmetic puffs, feminine hygiene products, and men’s, women’s and children’s clothing in a wide variety of styles.
How will purchasing organic products help keep our water clean?
Conventional agricultural methods can cause water contamination. Beginning in May 1995, a network of environmental organizations, including the Environmental Working Group, began testing tap water for herbicides in cities across the United States’ Corn Belt, and in Louisiana and Maryland. The results revealed widespread contamination of tap water with many different pesticides at levels that present serious health risks. In some cities, herbicides in tap water exceed federal lifetime health standards for weeks or months at a time. The organic farmer’s elimination of polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, in combination with soil building, works to prevent contamination, and protects and conserves water resources.
What is the Global Organic Textile Standard?
TheGOTS is the stringent voluntary international standard for the processing of textiles, including mattresses containing organic fiber. GOTS addresses the entire post-harvest processing (including spinning, knitting, weaving, dyeing and manufacturing) of apparel and home textiles made with organic fiber. It includes both environmental and social provisions for post-farm to retail shelf management. Key provisions include a ban on the use of child labor, genetic engineering, heavy metals, and highly hazardous chemicals such as formaldehyde, while requiring living wages and strict wastewater treatment practices.