Many in the professional cleaning industry only select products that have been certified by a leading green certification organization. This includes such organizations as Green Seal, UL Environment, which includes ECOLOGO and GREENGUARD, and Safer Choice/Design for Environment (DfE).
 
However, we should know that while the certification criteria of these organizations may be similar, they do not all have the same focus, according to Mike Sawchuk, Chief Business Development Officer at Avmor, manufacturer of traditional and green cleaning products.
 
Examples of some of the criteria similarities these organizations share are the following:
 • The product does not contain certain ingredients or limits the number of ingredients known to be harmful to human health and the environment.
 • Ingredients in the product are made from renewable sources and are readily biodegradable.
 • The product is packaged in materials containing a required recycled content, and the packaging is also recyclable.
 • The product is proven safer for people, users of the product, and the environment as compared to similar products used for the same or similar purpose.
 • The product meets life-cycle based criteria, is developed with multi-stakeholder participation, and each of the criteria requirements is independently proven.
 • Demonstrates that it is as effective as comparable, conventional brands used for the same purpose.

As to focus differences, Sawchuk lists the following:
 • Green Seal puts greater emphasis on cleaning products, the jan/san industry, and that products are sold in concentrated form.
 • ECOLOGO takes a much broader approach and certifies more products used in more industries.
 • GREENGUARD puts most of its focus on ensuring products protect indoor air quality.

"While there are similarities," says Sawchuk, "because GREENGUARD goes the extra mile when it comes to protecting indoor air quality, it can be of special importance in industry sectors such as education and healthcare." 
 
Sawchuk adds that products certified by all these organizations, offer the widest possible health benefits.