WATCHING YOUR WALLET: How to spot greenwashing [Video]

(WFSB) – April is earth month. If you’re looking to make more environmentally friendly purchases, there are certain labels you should be looking for.

When you are at the store it can be hard to spot what products are truly kind to the planet.

“Some of things we see are labels that look very official, but what does that organization do that certifies this product?” said Kristen Johnson with BBB Serving Connecticut.

You want to keep your eye out for what is called “greenwashing”: when a company misleads consumers about the environmental benefits of its products.

The Federal Trade Commission says you should look for specific information that verifies why a product is green.

“If a company claims that its product is less wasteful, there should be some sort of statement of proof, such as made of 85% recyclable material,” said Johnson.

Here’s some wording to look out for on products:

If it says, “biodegradable or compostable”, the company …