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Sustainability labels are becoming increasingly common on products, but with so many different certifications, it can be confusing to know what each one means. This primer provides an overview of the most common sustainability labels, covering general certifications, agricultural practices, building and home standards, chemical safety, animal welfare, electronics and appliances, forest products, and textiles.

• General certifications like B Corp, Cradle to Cradle, and Fair Trade ensure that companies meet certain standards for environmental and social responsibility.

• Agricultural labels like USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified focus on farming practices and the use of genetically modified organisms.

• Building and home certifications, such as LEED and WELL, assess the sustainability and health impacts of construction materials and practices.

• Chemical safety labels like EWG Verified and MADE SAFE ensure that products are free from harmful substances.

• Animal welfare certifications, including Leaping Bunny and Vegan Certified, indicate that products are cruelty-free and/or do not contain animal-derived ingredients.

• Energy Star and WaterSense labels help consumers identify energy-efficient and water-saving appliances and electronics.

• Forest product certifications, such as FSC and Rainforest Alliance, aim to promote sustainable forestry practices, although some programs have faced criticism for being too lenient.

• Textile labels like GOTS and OEKO-TEX ensure that clothing and other fabric products are made with organic materials and without harmful chemicals.

While the abundance of sustainability labels can be overwhelming, they ultimately demonstrate a growing commitment to environmental and social responsibility. By understanding what each label means, you can make more informed choices and support companies that align with their values.

If you'd like to dive into a specific certification, check out Treehugger's excellent and comprehensive guide below: