Is ECOS Sustainable or is it Greenwashing?
This article was last updated June 2024.
Is ECOS sustainable or is it greenwashing?
Welcome to my series “Sustainable or Greenwashing,” where I explore whether brands and products live up to their eco-friendly claims. Today, we’re diving into ECOS, a company with over 50 years of history in creating safer cleaning products. But the question remains: Is ECOS truly sustainable, or are they just greenwashing? 👩🏼💻
The Origins of ECOS
Founded over five decades ago, ECOS has always been committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of both people and the planet. Their mission focuses on creating cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals. Specifically, ECOS products are phthalate-free, paraben-free, chlorine-free, and contain no synthetic colors. This focus on safety and environmental stewardship is evident in their product line, which includes 120 EPA Safer Choice certified products.
Certifications and Achievements
EPA Safer Choice Certification
One of the most notable aspects of ECOS is their commitment to environmental certifications. Their 120 EPA Safer Choice certified products are designed to meet stringent criteria for human and environmental health. According to the EPA, this certification indicates that a product performs well and is safer for human health and the environment.
Climate Positivity
ECOS has also achieved Climate Positivity, making them the first company in the world to manufacture products in carbon-neutral, water-neutral, and TRUE Platinum Zero Waste facilities. This means that they offset more carbon dioxide than they emit, use water responsibly, and divert over 95% of their waste from landfills.
LEED Zero Certifications
In 2021, ECOS became the first manufacturer in the nation to achieve LEED Zero Carbon, LEED Zero Energy, and LEED Zero Waste certifications. The U.S. Green Building Council awards these certifications to buildings that achieve net-zero carbon emissions, net-zero energy consumption, and net-zero waste.
Recognition and Awards
ECOS has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability. In 2020, they were named the US EPA Safer Choice Partner of the Year. This award acknowledges their commitment to providing safer products for consumers while maintaining high environmental standards. 🧺
Employee Welfare and Operational Transparency
ECOS not only focuses on sustainability but also on the welfare of their employees. Each of their four facilities across the U.S. offers livable wages to all employees. Additionally, the company promotes transparency by making all of this information readily available and easy to understand on their website.
Consumer Trust and Accessibility
One of the factors that make ECOS stand out is the accessibility and clarity of their information. They ensure that consumers can easily find and understand their sustainability practices and certifications. This level of transparency helps build consumer trust and reinforces their commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion: Sustainable or Greenwashing?
Based on the evidence, it’s clear that ECOS goes above and beyond in their sustainability efforts. From their extensive certifications to their transparent communication and employee welfare practices, ECOS appears to be a genuinely sustainable brand. However, sustainability is a journey, and continuous improvement is essential.
What do you think? Is ECOS sustainable, or is there more they can do? Let me know your thoughts. And if you have another brand you’d like me to cover, feel free to suggest it!
Further Reading and Deep Dives
I have many more deep dives on my page that you can explore, and stick around for all things mind, body, and planet! For more information on ECOS and their sustainability practices, visit their website and check out their detailed section on the nasties they avoid in their products. 🌎
XOXO,
Krys
