In an era of climate change, pollution and a globalized consumer society, it is critical to recognize and consciously choose environmentally friendly products. These products are not just a marketing ploy with the “green” label – they have real values and traceability behind them, helping to reduce our ecological footprint and mitigate the risk of greenwashing. Our awareness not only has a positive impact on our own health, but also serves the future of our planet.
What makes a product environmentally friendly? How to choose the right one?
An environmentally friendly product is one whose production, use and post-use do not contribute to harming the Earth. The following are important to support this:
1. Recycled, natural materials . Choose packaging made from recycled, biodegradable or natural materials instead of synthetic plastics – e.g. packaging made from fibers, paper, wood, sugar cane.
2. Packaging: less = better . Avoid extra packaging. If you do have it, make it recyclable or compostable.
3. A durable product with a long life cycle. A durable product produces less waste. Think, for example, of durable napkins, washable handkerchiefs, or hard-wearing clothes
4. Authentic certificates, labels. Look for authentic certificates – these guarantee environmental awareness through independent testing. You can read more about this in the article!
5. Energy and water-efficient manufacturing. Products from companies that use energy and water efficiently are produced with a smaller environmental footprint.
6. Transparency and verifiable commitment. Look for QR code tracking or transparent information (where it is made, what it is made of) – this way you can avoid greenwashing / greenwashing
Our values
At PatentDuo, our three main pillars are freedom of movement, awareness and aesthetics. We offer garments that are comfortable, clean and environmentally conscious at the same time.
The pieces of our collection are made in our Budapest workshop with the participation of experienced seamstresses – less transportation, more support for the local community. Our clothes are made in It is characterized by durable quality. This reduces the environmental impact of fast fashion, and our conscious production process helps minimize the ecological footprint, use recyclable materials, and maintain a high level of production discipline .
Eco-friendly product trademarks (especially focused on clothing products)
The following 11 labels will help you navigate the sustainability and environmental friendliness of textile products.
Environmentally Friendly Product
The Hungarian Environmentally Friendly Product trademark (often referred to as the “green cedar” or eco-label) has been used since 1994. It guarantees that a product is more environmentally friendly than similar alternatives throughout its entire life cycle – from raw material use to waste disposal .
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
GOTS is the world's leading organic textile certification, guaranteeing that a product is made from at least 70% organic raw materials and meets strict environmental and social criteria. The certification is carried out by an independent organization across the entire supply chain.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100
This label guarantees that every textile component – yarn, button, zipper – has been lab-tested for over 1,000 harmful substances, with a particular focus on human health. STANDARD 100 is based on regularly updated global criteria that apply to different product classes based on the degree of skin contact.
OEKO-TEX Made in Green
This label carries forward the safety of Standard 100 and ensures that production has been carried out in an environmentally friendly manner and under ethical operating conditions. Each labeled product is provided with a QR code that can be used to trace the supply chain.
Fair Trade
Fair Trade label. The label certifies that the product was produced at a fair price and under fair working conditions . By purchasing such products, we support producers in developing countries in combating inequality.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
The FSC label guarantees that all wooden elements come from responsibly managed , controlled forests. This way you support the preservation of forests and their biodiversity.
EU Ecolabel
The EU Ecolabel is a comprehensive certification that takes into account multiple environmental and health criteria – it is an ISO 14024 Type I third-party certification. It is available not only for textiles, but also for several product groups.
Blue Angel
The Blue Angel label, supported by the German government, is also displayed on environmentally friendly textiles and other products and guarantees outstanding environmental performance . The certification is subject to the simultaneous fulfillment of several criteria.
Cradle to Cradle
This label identifies products that are fully recyclable (as a “technical” or “biological feedstock”) while using safe materials and renewable energy. The certification consists of several levels (Bronze–Platinum) in five areas (material health, recyclability, energy, water management and social responsibility).
B Corp
AB Corp is a corporate certification that certifies a company's overall social and environmental commitment , not just a specific product. External audits are used to verify the company's impact on its community, environment and employees.
Green
The Green-e certificate demonstrates the use of renewable energy and a commitment to carbon neutrality . It is primarily used for energy products and services.
Summary
What is a truly green, environmentally friendly product? A product that has a reduced environmental impact based on a life cycle analysis, contains ecodesign elements, and is certified by an independent organization.
Labels and certifications – GOTS, OEKO-TEX, EU Ecolabel and others help avoid greenwashing and support the conscious consumer.
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