Please note that these represent the general characteristics we look for in companies, but the industry-specific standards are the starting place when determining eligibility for the Seal of Approval. For example, a company that specializes in packaging will be held to higher standards than outlined here in the “Packaging” section of Product/Service.
Product quality
Baseline Standards
The product should be:
- well-made and safe (for people, animals, and the environment);
- long-lasting and with performance guaranteed;
- designed so as not to become obsolete (to the extent this can be anticipated).
Preferences
- fulfill a genuine customer need.
Cruelty-free
Baseline Standard
- Conducts no animal testing.
Preferences
- Uses no animal products.
Waste reduction
Baseline Standards
- The product(s) should maximize the use of recycled and recyclable materials;
- The producer should minimize waste in production and disposal of the product(s).
Preferences
- The company accepts standard refills and/or has readily available refills.
Environmental safety
Baseline Standards
The product should:
- contain no harmful chemicals (such as phosphates, chlorine, formaldehyde, CFCs);
- be nontoxic, including surface coverings, glues, etc.;
- be recyclable, biodegradable, or responsibly disposable;
- be composed of sustainably grown and harvested ingredients.
Preferences
- be free of petroleum-based products or derivatives (or the company must have stated goals of and progress toward eliminating all petrochemical additives);
- not contain ingredients about which there are scarcity concerns.
Organic
Baseline Standards
- Clear and expressed commitment to organic practices; articulation of any affordability and accessibility concerns around certification.
- Demonstration that product(s) is produced free from pesticides, herbicides, and artificial fertilizers.
Preferences
- Comprised entirely of USDA certified organic ingredients to extent feasible.
- Grown from organic seeds.
Packaging
Baseline Standards
- Minimal packaging.
- Commitment to (operationally) recyclable or recycled containers and packaging.
Preferences
- No plastic, Styrofoam, or petrochemical-based packaging.
- 100% recycled containers and packaging.
Energy efficiency
Baseline Standards
The company should have:
- evaluated its energy use;
- developed a plan to decrease its energy use and have specific steps and timeline for implementation.
Preferences
- implemented renewable energy sources for business, web hosting, and shipping when possible.
Positive education and social values
Baseline Standards
The company should:
- avoid the use of negative stereotypes;
- recognize diversity in its programs, policies, and practices (including hiring).
Preferences
- educate the public and consumers about different cultural values as appropriate.
Transparency
- Product labels and Web site contain an accurate and complete ingredient list.
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