Does "Natural" Mean Better? Facts & Myths
🌿 Are "natural" products always healthier and more eco-friendly?
Many people believe that if a product is labelled "natural," it must be better for their health and the environment. But is that really true? 🤔
🔹 Fact: Natural ingredients can be eco-friendly, but not always.
🔹 Myth: "Natural" means chemical-free – everything is chemistry, even water and oxygen!
🔹 Fact: Some synthetic ingredients are safer and more effective than their natural alternatives.
🔹 Myth: A "natural" product always biodegrades – some "natural" cosmetics contain mineral oils that take years to break down.
🧐 What to check?
✅ Ingredients – does the product actually contain natural components or just "natural" branding?
✅ Certifications – look for Ecocert, COSMOS Organic, or EU Ecolabel.
✅ Packaging – is an "eco" product packaged in plastic? That’s not very sustainable!
♻️ Conclusion: "Natural" does not always mean better. The key is to read labels and choose certified products wisely. 🌍
Eco Labels – Which Are Trustworthy?
🌱 Not every "eco" label is trustworthy!
There are many "green" labels on the market, but only some are verified by independent organisations. Here are the most trustworthy certifications:
✅ EU Ecolabel – for products that meet high environmental standards.
✅ Fair Trade – ensures ethical production and fair labour conditions.
✅ FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) – indicates responsible forestry practices.
✅ Ecocert – certification for organic cosmetics and food.
✅ COSMOS Organic – guarantees organic skincare and beauty products.
🚨 Beware of fake labels!
🔸 No details about certification.
🔸 Green leaves, drops, or globes without an official certification body.
🔸 Terms like "environmentally friendly" without any proof.
🧐 How to check certifications?
📌 Official websites of certifying organisations.
📌 Apps that scan product barcodes.
📌 Manufacturer websites – do they mention real certifications?
🔎 Don’t be fooled – choose products with legitimate certifications! 💚♻️
Biodegradable vs. Compostable – What’s the Difference?
🌿 Does biodegradable mean compostable? NO! 🌍
Many people assume that if a product is labelled "biodegradable," it will quickly break down and be harmless to the environment. Unfortunately, this is often just marketing hype.
🟢 Biodegradable Products:
✔️ Break down with the help of microorganisms.
⚠️ BUT: They have no set breakdown time – it could take weeks, years, or centuries!
⚠️ Some may leave behind microplastics and pollutants.
🟢 Compostable Products:
✔️ Fully decompose in controlled composting conditions, leaving organic fertiliser.
⚠️ BUT: Not all compostable products are suitable for home composting – some need industrial conditions.
🔎 Key takeaway: To make a truly eco-friendly choice, look for certified compostable products rather than vague "biodegradable" claims. ♻️🌍