Is there a difference between green and eco?

MSC · #1 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 16:24

I've purposely not put this in the green section as I want as wide a variety of opinions as possible.

If you see something is 'green' or 'eco' do you think there is a difference? What about 'natural'?

The reason I am asking is I want to make some headings for some points about my business. I can't decide the best term to use for the green/eco/natural point or whether to do 'natural' seperately.

Any thoughts?

Thank you in advance

RawRob · #2 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 17:22

Green and eco are very often mis-used so I will always read the small print and do my own research to see if the claims are true. Natural has a more specific meaning so can be mis-used less, but it can still be mis-used so again, I will always look more closely for the details.

Rob

PremierPDS · #3 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 17:27

If it's for skin care I'd say natural is more the word to use. Eco and green refer to waste disposal, decomposition and chemicals and therefore the environment IMO! If something is stated as 'natural', I'd assume it was made from products that do not contain artificial/ manmade substances/ chemicals

Fuzzy · #4 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 18:15

I agree with Nickie

boxby · #5 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 18:34

Natural in my opinion means things that grow. So sugar, butter, veg etc. Doesn't necessarily mean good for you, but i think it means unadulterated. I would prefer a natural skincare product always, wouldn't want a chemical mancreated product.

Green - I see to be as individual's own efforts. For example seperating out your rubbish into different wheelie bins. Small effort/impact. I wouldn't attach green to skincare, except to expect a recycled bottle.

Ecological - i see to be more than an individual, more about corporate and goverment, for example building a new windmill farm. larger proects with permanent lasting impacts. I wouldn't understand how skincare products could change the environment permanently and on a large scale.

That's just my interpretations.

MSC · #6 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 19:59

Thanks everyone.

That has made things much clearer and I will stick with 'natural' (which the products are!)

OldWelshGuy · #7 (**permalink**) 19-08-2008, 22:19

Yep I also see natural as meaning as near to their original state as possible without additives and colourings. Eco or green cosmetics would be things that don't harm the earth.

imlaygilbert · #8 (**permalink**) 20-08-2008, 07:27

I think if "Nature" is the set and green and eco are the subset.

paperman · #9 (**permalink**) 20-08-2008, 07:41

They are both really buzz words, we sell green office supplies, Eco friendly office products and full or part recycled office equipment but also we do have products that fall into the Eco friendly section; not because they are at all recycled but because they are produced with the intention of improving trade for growers and farmers in the third world (fair trade etc) - it's worth double checking any environmental benefit if you are now sure.