I am a huge fan of Organic… it’s natural, chemical free and supportive of the Environment. However, sometimes I feel the sticker shock of prices because sometimes it can be three times more expensive than conventional products that’s out there on the market. The good news is that some conglomerate companies are starting to take notice of the “green movement” and catering to their needs. Gerber is such company that has started the Eco friendly “Organic Baby” line and I am a convinced buyer.
Some cynics scoff that it’s all a marketing ploy and companies such as these are just cashing in on the big business that Environmentalism has become, but as someone who can not afford $30 onesies yet wanting to still be a do-gooder; I am willing to compromise my purist standards. What can I say? The price is right yet still green.
I am really impressed with the Gerber Organic clothing line. The cotton is so soft to touch and all Gerber Organic products meet USDA standards for “organic” and are also certified organic by the Oregon Tilth - a USDA accredited organic certified agency.
However, you shouldn’t buy into a product just because it is labeled “green” or “Eco-friendly”. Do some research. Some companies stand out more than others in their commitment and dedication to sustainable living. They have built their brand and reputation on it. But when such companies like Burt’s Bees and the Body Shop (both a very well known Eco-friendly brand) is bought out by companies like Clorox and L’Oreal.. there has to be a question. Will the sustainablity issue be compromised. Or is it all green washing? Can I really trust that the company is truly dedicated to sustainability or is it all a smokescreen? This is a difficult question that we must constantly ask as we try to shop our way through the explosion of Eco-friendly and Green advertising.
I came across an excellent article, Green Brands Get a Green Light from David Blyth, a South African Doctor and Brand Ambassador (proving that Environmentalism is a world-wide concern) that discuss the very same issue. I really love this point.
Research shows that the more educated consumer - not necessarily more affluent - is the likely buyer of green products. As we’ve seen, the green market is a confusing place for a well-meaning but under-informed consumer. There is great opportunity in educating - and thereby empowering - your customer about ethical consumerism by providing accessible and relevant information. And thereby nurturing, growing and creating a new market.
I believe that big companies taking notice of sustainability issue and making that small step is an improvement. Perhaps it is for profit or for gain but change comes in small steps. We must question their credibility as well as their commitment but also have a bit of faith that it is a step up for the Mother Earth.
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You make a really good point in your article. It is very confusing out there. I was just reading a debate about clorax green cleaners the other day, which is an affordable option for those who want a less toxic cleaner. Should we support Clorax endeavors or should we say it is just a way for a company to step into the green market for profit? Kind of like your gerber situation. In the end, I think everyone has to do what makes them comfortable.
Personally, I am in the middle of the debate and see both sides. However, I believe we can make a difference by signing the petition at Heathlytoys.org to overhaul the 30 year Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA). Ridding our society of all the chemicals that are harmful is a step in the right direction and everyone wins on this sitation.
Here is the link: http://www.healthytoys.org/takeaction.federal.php
Well I guess, buyers should be aware of this kinds of products. We do not know some of this products are hazardous to our health.
I think, the companies should undergo for some inspection to make sure if their product is qualified to be labeled as “green” or “eco-friendly”. Not all customers have time to do some research for the products.
The problem with trusting the US Government to properly monitor the safety of products and actions is that often they deliberately overlook certain environmental hazards and human health issues if they can do so or at least someone decides to file a tort lawsuit. Then they seem to take forever to enact those laws to protect us. By then the implicated business declares bankruptcy after dumping their hazardous product on an unaware public thinking they are saving their money, thus, leaving only tragedy in its disappearance.
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