Exploring Alternatives
As of today in Canada, there are no legal requirements to substantiate that a product is biodegradable. In June of 2008, the Competition Bureau, in concert with the Canadian Standards Association produced a Guide, which states that:
- The use of vague claims implying general environmental improvement are insufficient and should be avoided.
- Environmental claims should be clear, specific, accurate and not misleading.
- Environmental claims should be verified and substantiated, prior to being made.
This should help businesses protect consumers by defining expectations, but is not a law. It is up to us to watch what we buy carefully.
The good news is there is an increasing number of environmentally friendly, AND effective products on the shelves today, allowing us to make choices less harmful to both ourselves and nature. It may not always be easy and the only way to ensure that you are choosing a product without hazardous substances is to carefully read the label.
Biodegradable products
Microorganisms, light, heat and natural chemicals break down biodegradable products, sometimes acting together to degrade or decompose a substance. Examples of naturally biodegradable materials are tree leaves, grass, refuse from food, cotton rags and human sewage. Although biodegradable products are supposed to break down in a reasonable time, it may take up to 28 days for this to happen, during which time there can be an environmental impact.
The bottom line: it’s better that the product is specifically designed to break down, than not at all, so buying a biodegradable product makes sense.
To learn more about alternative and “Do it Yourself” recipes go to the Less Toxic Guide. You’ll also find a thorough description of ingredients in commercial products, by category, to help you make informed decisions and environmentally friendly choices.
Just look in your cupboards
Many times the answers are right in front of us. For simple, effective and less harmful cleaning solutions try some of these suggestions:
- Baking Soda – use for scouring to clean appliances, vinyl, stainless steel sinks, and toilets, deodorize rugs and drains
- Vinegar – glass cleaner when mixed with water. Can be used undiluted to clean grout or other places where mildew grows
- Pure Soap – all purpose cleaner for dishes, clothing, and even boats
- Borax (Sodium Borate) – clean floors, tiles, walls and deodorize at the same time. This product will reduce mould growth
- Natural Oils – wood floors and furniture can be polished with mixtures of mineral oil, olive oil and lemon oil
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