How do you verify eco claims for sustainable materials?

1 Check the labels

One of the easiest ways to verify eco claims for sustainable materials is to look for labels or certifications that indicate the product has met certain standards or criteria for environmental performance, social responsibility, or health and safety. For example, some common labels for sustainable materials are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood products, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for organic cotton, and Cradle to Cradle for circular design. However, not all labels are equally reliable or transparent, so you should also check the source and scope of the certification, the criteria and methods used, and the validity and frequency of the audits.

2 Do your research

Another way to verify eco claims for sustainable materials is to do your own research on the product, the manufacturer, and the supply chain. You can use online databases, directories, or platforms that provide information and ratings on the environmental and social aspects of different materials and products. For example, some useful resources are Ecoinvent, which offers life cycle inventory data for various materials and processes, Good On You, which evaluates the sustainability of fashion brands, and Material ConneXion, which showcases innovative and sustainable materials from around the world. You can also contact the manufacturer directly and ask for evidence or documentation to support their eco claims.

3 Use tools and methods

A third way to verify eco claims for sustainable materials is to use tools and methods that help you measure and compare the environmental impacts of different materials and products. For example, some common tools and methods are LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), which quantifies the environmental impacts of a product from cradle to grave, EPD (Environmental Product Declaration), which summarizes the environmental information of a product based on LCA data, and Ecolabel Index, which lists and compares over 400 ecolabels from different sectors and regions. These tools and methods can help you understand the trade-offs and benefits of different material choices and select the most suitable option for your design goals and context.

4 Apply critical thinking

A final way to verify eco claims for sustainable materials is to apply critical thinking and common sense to evaluate the validity and relevance of the claims. You should be wary of vague, exaggerated, or misleading claims that use terms like natural, biodegradable, or carbon neutral without providing any details or proof. You should also consider the whole life cycle of the product, not just one aspect or stage, and the potential trade-offs or impacts of using one material over another. You should also ask yourself if the product is necessary, durable, and adaptable, and if it aligns with your values and principles as a sustainable designer.