As we examine How to be Ethical and Green when shopping, are you concerned with remaining true to your ethical convictions when shopping? Some people are concerned about animal testing and other processes used in the development and manufacturing of consumer products. These are practices that some view as unethical, and it can be helpful to have some tips on how to keep your shopping trips ethical.

Genetically Modified Foods or GM Foods

GM Foods (Genetically Modified Foods, or GMFs) are a concern for those who want to minimize their impact on the environment. GMFs are a new technology and much is left up to chance, in what amounts to an uncertain experiment with our food. Because labeling laws are dicey, look for foods that are labeled to be free of GMFs – unlabeled foods may or may not contain GMFs, including produce. If you have to guess, choose organic and/or locally grown foods that are far less likely to be genetically modified.

Are Products Using Animal Testing

The suffering of laboratory animals is a source of concern for ethical shoppers. The cosmetics industry is most highly implicated in animal testing, so when you are shopping for beauty products, look for a “Cruelty Free” seal or other similar notation on the package.

Animal Cruelty on Farms

Try to purchase animal products such as meat, milk, cheese, and eggs from ethical farms, which means they don’t implement animal cruelty on those farms.. Look for free-range, grass-fed meats and free-range eggs. Even better, obtain animal products from local farmers whose practices you can observe directly.

Fair Trade Items

Clearly marked, Fair Trade items are produced with small, independent farmers in developing nations in mind. Fair Trade items are produced and manufactured under fair working conditions. Fair Trade also assures that farmers are receiving a fair price for their products.

Support Independent Businesses

Shopping at your local, non-chain (or small chain) stores supports your community. It also means you are investing in items that have not been shipped overseas or across the country.

Buy Second Hand

Buying second-hand items reduces waste, which is a significant part of ethical shopping. Barter, trade, and other means of swapping and obtaining goods are worth exploring.

Know Your Products

Do your research into the companies and corporations from which you buy your products. Find out if their business practices are ethical, and if the company does not line up with your beliefs, you can find an alternative to that item.

Bring Your Own ‘Green’ Bags

Reduce the use of soft plastic by bringing your own reusable bag(s) on your shopping trip. And if you do have to use the plastics bags, you can recycle plastic bags also. Check with your local community recyclers to see who will recycle plastic bags. Some stores typically will have a drop off bin for recycling us plastic bags.

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk reduces packaging, much of which is manufactured using synthetic materials and is a source of pollution. You can also save money on gas and reduce co2 emissions by traveling less frequently to the market.

We hope that How To Be Ethical And Be Green When Shopping has helped you to be a more ethical green shopper!

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Originally posted 2010-04-10 14:23:44.