Now you have decided to do yourself a favour as well as the planet Earth to go green. But, how can you tell which manufacturers are really making products that help the earth? Choosing products only by price would not get you the best value, you need to look at the life cycle of the product and that is what the green certifiers are doing. Certifiers have independently assessed hundreds of products and chosen the greenest in each category.
So, on your next trip to buy your new appliance, do not forget to take into account of the following factors: - How to Read Energy Guide;
- Recognize Product with "Green Seals";
- Purchase Cost vs Operating Cost.
How to read Energy GuideThe EnergyGuide label gives you two important pieces of information you can use to compare different brands and models when shopping for a new refrigerator.
Recognize Product with "Green Seals"
Energy Star
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S Department of Energy helping us all saving money and protecting the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Green Seal Certification Green Seal Certification ensures that a product meets rigorous, science-based environmental leadership standards. This gives manufacturers the assurance to back up their claims and purchasers confidence that certified products are better for human health and the environment. Truly a green pick.
Fair Trade Fair Trade principles include: fair prices, fair labor conditions, direct trade, democratic and transparent organizations, community development and environmental sustainability for farms/farm workers in 58 developing countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America. A very trustworthy seal.
Rainforest Alliance Rainforest Alliance sets standards for sustainability that conserve wildlife and wildlands and promote the well being of workers and their communities. Farms, forestry enterprises and tourism that meet the comprehensive criteria receive the Rainforest Alliance certification seal.
Greenguard Environmental Institute Greenguard Environmental Institute is an industry-independent, non-profit organization that establishes acceptable indoor air standards for indoor products, environments and buildings.
Leaping Bunny Program Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics' (CCIC) on Leaping Bunny Program administers a cruelty-free standard for companies producing cosmetic, personal care and household products.
Purchase Cost vs Operating Cost Every appliance has two price tagsāthe purchase price and the operating cost. Consider both when buying a new appliance. 
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