Glossary

Decode the eco-speak with our friendly glossary list of green buzzwords and certifications.

Fair trade: In the U.S., TransFairUSA is the only third-party verifier of fair trade claims and certifies that agricultural commodities are purchased at above-market rates from farmers who have eliminated agrochemicals and pay workers fairly. The industry-supported Fair Trade Federation accepts member companies based upon their commitment to, among other things, paying crafts producers at least the local minimum wage and protecting natural resources. Members must reapply annually and provide documentation about material sourcing and labor policies.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): The FSC is an international nonprofit organization formed in 1993 to encourage better forestry practices. Governed by representatives of environmental organizations, the forest industry and social groups from over 60 countries around the world, it is widely viewed as the most independent and credible global forest certification system. The FSC accredits certifiers (such as the Rainforest Alliance's SmartWood program) who then send out auditors to inspect forests according to FSC's principles. The FSC certification principles cover environmental, social and economic criteria, with certain requirements tailored to the specific needs of each regional ecosystem. Those forest operations that meet the criteria are allowed to display the FSC label on their wood. Wood products, such as furniture, made with FSC-certified wood may also carry the FSC label.
Formaldehyde: Found in cosmetics, cleaning supplies, solvents used in wood finishes and in particle board, formaldehyde is classified by the EPA as a probable human carcinogen. In its liquid state, formaldehyde, present in the ingredients DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15, can be absorbed through the skin and nails. As a volatile organic compound, or VOC, formaldehyde evaporates when the product is wet; levels drop sharply once it's dry.
Fragrance-Free (also "unscented"): Although this term implies that a product contains no fragrance, companies often add fragrances to cover up its chemical smell. Furthermore, the FDA has no definition for the term, and because fragrances are considered trade secrets, the government does not require companies to include them in product ingredient lists. Consequently, consumers may be unable to pinpoint the specific ingredient causing reactions.
Fumigants: Poisonous gases used for pest control. Phosphene gas and methyl bromide, the two most commonly used fumigants, are both extremely toxic.