An Easy-to-Understand Overview of Greenwashing in Interior Design: Identifying, Misrepresentations, and Steering Clear
Sustainability hype is everywhere, and it's no shocker. It's no longer just a niche concern for designers focused on low-emission or carbon-neutral materials, but a top priority for homeowners who care about their home's health and function.
As more brands hop on the eco-friendly bandwagon, it's essential to separate smart marketing from the genuine deal. With growing awareness around sustainable interior design, ethical sourcing, and environmental impact, the risk of greenwashing in the industry is on the rise.
Navigating sustainability can be a complicated task due to the lack of regulation in terms like "natural," "non-toxic," "green," and "sustainable," leaving plenty of room for interpretation and manipulation. This often leads to informed decisions based on misleading, incomplete, or purposefully confusing information.
The key to cutting through the noise lies in the insights from sustainability consultants and other experts. From understanding which certifications matter to choosing materials that align with your aesthetic and values, the path to authentic, ethical design is more accessible than you might think. Here's a quick guide to everything you need to know.
So, what exactly is greenwashing in interior design? According to renowned interior designer Pia Pelkonen, many brands use sustainability as a marketing tool without fully committing to it. Claims centered on "eco-friendly" materials or sustainable practices can be misleading as "products may still have significant environmental or social impacts."
Even recycled materials aren’t always as environmentally friendly as they appear. For instance, using post-consumer recycled polyester might be better than sending plastic to landfill, but it doesn't make it truly sustainable. Instead, opt for materials like organic cotton grown without pesticides, cork surfaces, hemp, wool, and responsibly harvested wood.
Designer Veronica Lloveras of Clayton Korte agrees, stating that brands often use vague terms like "natural" or "eco-friendly" without verification. She adds that misleading claims include exaggerated benefits and false certifications that lack third-party validation.
To make informed decisions, designer Jen Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors suggests looking for companies that are B-Corp certified. Certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX, a standard that tests for harmful chemicals, are also beneficial for textiles.
Bear in mind that not all certifications are created equal. Reputable third-party sources like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Cradle to Cradle, or Greenguard indicate eco-friendliness. Beware of generic "green" logos that offer no real verification. If you're still unsure, reach out to brands directly. "Brands should disclose sourcing and production details," says Veronica. "If it is difficult to find information or a product rep is hesitant to send it, then it's likely a ruse."
To spot the real deal and avoid greenwashing, ask questions and invest time in researching brands and products. "Truly sustainable companies are transparent and open about where their products are made and how," says Pia. "Certifications help, but transparency matters more."
So, how do we move past greenwashing and into a more sustainable way of living? By asking better questions, looking for meaningful certifications, and pushing for transparency, we can create a more thoughtful and authentically sustainable future. Embrace eco-conscious design, and let your home be a testament to genuine sustainability.
- Sustainable interior design trends increasingly influence kitchen decor, including the use of tiles and flooring that are ethically sourced and environmentally friendly.
- Understanding the difference between misleading marketed terms such as 'natural,' 'non-toxic,' 'green,' and 'sustainable,' in the context of home-and-garden products, is crucial for discerning between smart marketing and genuine sustainability.
- As the importance of environmental-science concerning climate-change becomes more prominent in contemporary lifestyle, experts advocate for authentic materials like organic cotton, cork, hemp, wool, and responsibly harvested wood in interior design.
- When it comes to ethical-sourcing in art and decor, to avoid greenwashing, it is advisable to choose companies that are B-Corp certified, or have certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX.
- While certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Cradle to Cradle, or Greenguard are indicative of eco-friendliness, beware of generic 'green' logos that lack real verification, and always reach out to brands directly for transparency.
- A truly sustainable home design reflects not only the convenience, function, and health of the space, but also promotes a deeper understanding of the impact of art, decor, and lifestyle choices on the environment, thus making greenwashing a non-issue.
