The Federal Trade Commission has been working to protect the consumer from false or exaggerated “green” claims, issuing green guides for manufacturers and purchasing advice for the consumer. In its article, “Sorting Out 'Green' Advertising Claims,” the FTC lists six steps a consumer can take when evaluating a product’s green legitimacy. Here they are, in brief.

Step 1: When you evaluate environmental claims in advertising and on a product labels, look for specific information.

Step 2: If a product is labeled “recycled,” determine if it refers to the label itself, the product, or both.

Step 3: “Recycled” products can contain used, rebuilt, reconditioned, or re-manufactured parts—make sure the label specifies which.

Step 4: Labels that claim to use “less material” should clarify which material has been reduced, and if the reduction is relative to previous products/packaging or a competitor’s product.

Step 5: Look for specific recycling instructions on products labeled “recyclable.”

Step 6: Look for additional information and evidence to support a product’s “ozone-friendly” or “ozone-safe” label.

For more details, read the article in its entirety here.