Eco-friendly goods – There are environmental issues associated with the design and production of goods. These relate to resource use, hazardous and toxic ingredients, production waste and post-consumer waste.

Eco-friendly goods

What factors make eco-friendly goods?

There are a number of factors in the design and production of eco-friendly goods outlined below. By choosing goods which incorporate some, if not all, of these factors you will reduce your ecological footprint and any potential harm goods can create.


Material efficiency

A more sustainable product will use less raw materials, which is also known as having less material intensity. Better design, substitution of materials with better properties, and better production processes are ways to achieve better material efficiency. Material efficiency also includes the packaging.


Low carbon footprint

The energy intensity of any type of product includes the energy used in the sourcing of raw materials, in the production process, and in distribution and sale. It also includes the energy required in its ongoing use and ultimate disposal.


Effectiveness

Also known as service intensity, this is talking about how well a product or service performs its function. People will discard a product that doesn’t work properly which is a waste. You will look after and keep a product that is effective and a pleasure to use.


Non-toxic

A toxic substance is one that may be harmful to the environment and/or human health. Although some toxins occur naturally, e.g. certain heavy metals, human activities have created dangerous levels of synthetic toxins. Products should be made from substances that are either natural and/or harmless.


Recyclable

Recycled material reduces the demand for raw materials. For every tonne of waste thrown away, is estimated that an extra 20 tonnes of waste is created at the point where the raw material is extracted. Substantial energy savings can also be made by using recycled materials.


Maximum renewable content

The less material we extract from the earth’s crust the better. Also, the less synthetic material we create the better. Renewable, organic materials generally need less energy in their processing, they sequester carbon and in their natural state they are harmless to the environment.


Durability and quality

The longer a product lasts the better. Avoid disposable or poor quality products. Well made, durable goods are more useful, dependable, easy to maintain, and a joy to use.