Green Seal Hopes That Revised Green Guides Statement from FTC Can End Greenwashing
Green Seal Statement on Final Version of Revised FTC Green Guides Released
Washington, D.C., October 1 – Statement from Dr. Arthur Weissman, President and CEO of Green Seal.
Green Seal, Inc. (www.GreenSeal.org), is the nation’s oldest independent, non-profit environmental certification organization and the original “green seal of approval.”
“Green Seal is very pleased with the FTC’s final guides on certifications and seals of approval. There is now clear, current guidance on how to find credible certifications like Green Seal. With this new guidance, we hope that there will be enforcement to help rid the marketplace of the many less-than-credible seals and greenwashing that exists. Now purchasers can be more discriminating in the seals that they trust and reference.”
Cracking Down on Misleading Eco-Claims
Because greenwashing confuses consumers and hurts legitimate businesses, the FTC aims to restore trust. The updated Green Guides push for clarity in every environmental claim. For example, marketers can no longer use vague terms like “green” or “earth-friendly” without solid evidence. Even better, claims about recyclability, compostability, or carbon neutrality must now include proof and context.
At the same time, the Guides emphasize transparency. If a product contains recycled content, marketers must state how much. If energy comes from renewable sources, they must disclose whether fossil fuels were used too. This clarity helps consumers make informed choices.
These updates mark a crucial shift. They raise the bar for honest marketing. As a result, they empower shoppers and level the playing field for truly sustainable brands. Because now, green must actually mean green.
Take Action: Demand Honest Green Marketing
Don’t settle for vague labels and empty promises. As a consumer, you hold real power. So next time you shop, read beyond the packaging. Ask questions. Look for specific claims backed by third-party certifications. Even better, support companies that go beyond buzzwords and show measurable progress toward sustainability.
At the same time, speak up. If you see a product making misleading green claims, report it to the Federal Trade Commission. Your voice can help hold companies accountable and push for better standards.
Because when consumers demand truth, the market changes. Together, we can raise expectations—and reward the brands that actually walk the walk. So let’s move beyond greenwashing and build a truly sustainable future, one honest label at a time.
SOURCE: GREEN SEAL, INC. www.greenseal.org
