People looking to live more sustainably are strongly drawn to ethically-sourced materials, green brands, and environmentally-friendly products/services to help them make this lifestyle transition.
Overwhelmed by all the marketing lingo and different options for green products? This article will define some common green marketing terms, explain the benefits of different products/materials, and detail resources for learning more about living sustainably.
Understanding Common Green Marketing Terms
Sustainable brands share their values, promote their products/services, and build customer loyalty through the use of green marketing. Green marketing is the act of promoting products/services based on their environmental benefits. Therefore, these benefits could be within the production, packaging, or promotion process.
Here are 8 other green marketing terms defined to better understand the value of living sustainably and to help you make informed decisions on how to make the lifestyle transition seamlessly.
Sustainable
These can be human practices that do not diminish or damage the health of our environment, ecosystems, species, or natural resources. Furthermore, it’s the ability for future generations to thrive should also not be adversely affected.
Greenwashing
Greenwashing is the practice of convincing consumers that a particular product is a healthy or sustainable alternative when it isn’t.
Organic
These are products that meet the standards of the USDA National Organic Program, including no synthetic or petroleum-derived products/materials used and no genetic engineering.
Environmentally-friendly or Eco-friendly
Products or practices that are not harmful to the environment.
Ethically-sourced
Adhering to ethical and responsible practices that consider environmental and social impacts during the sourcing process.
Carbon Footprint
This is an approximate calculation of how much carbon dioxide you produce based on your lifestyle behaviors.
Carbon Emissions
Carbon-based substances, such as fossil fuels, that pollute the environment once released into the atmosphere.
Renewable Energy
Energy, like electricity, supplied from wind and solar power, geothermal, hydropower, and other renewable sources of energy.
Top Sustainable Products/Materials
Here are 2 of the top sustainable materials and their benefits:
Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the best sustainable materials out there. Every continent produces it except Antarctica and Europe. Bamboo has a high strength-to-weight ratio and exceptional durability. Therefore, It’s easy to transport and grows without the need for replanting.
Recycled metal or repurposed wood
Recycled metal is long-lasting, water and pest-resistant. Reclaimed wood is also a natural resource that can be used for building and structural materials. Every time metal or wood is reused or recycled properly, the energy used to produce, house, and transport either material is significantly lowered.
Here are 2 of the top sustainable products and their benefits:
Digital/smart products
Digital/smart products can be used to improve your energy usage and reduce your carbon footprint. You can choose from a variety of devices, including smart refrigerators, television sets, and even smart outlets to ensure you’re being most effective with how you use energy in your household.
Electric vehicles
Driving an electric vehicle can also positively impact environmental health. Energy.gov says that electric vehicles, “can also reduce the emissions that contribute to climate change and smog, improving public health and reducing ecological damage. Charging your EV on renewable energy such as solar or wind minimizes these emissions even more.”
Resources for learning more about Living Sustainably
When looking to live more sustainably, use the following resources to learn more and make responsible lifestyle choices that positively impact our planet.
The internet
Don’t be afraid to dive deep into the internet for a variety of resources to help you live sustainably. For instance, anything from home decor choices to using appliances effectively, all the way to sustainable clothing options, various online sources can help you live green.
Social media
Social media is also a wonderful resource for gaining information about sustainable lifestyle practices. You can also engage regularly with your favorite sustainable brands and businesses and keep up with their eco-friendly efforts.
Word-of-mouth
We learn about new environmental, social, and economic threats daily, so we’re all invested in how to live in a way that influences the longevity of our planet. Spread the word about your sustainability efforts and listen to others as they share their journey to pick up new tips and practices.
The increasing interest in sustainability is slowly shaping the way businesses produce their products, market them, as well as connect with consumers. Adequately research sustainable brands, products/services, and businesses through the internet, social media, and word-of-mouth. In addition, understand the language and benefits of using sustainable products/services, and you’ll be well on your way to living more sustainably.
Author: Noah Rue
