3. ETICA Symbols

Design Values

Jul 10

What does it mean?

There are so many terminologies out there that it is very easy to get confused. I still get sometimes.

Let me try to put things a bit simpler and help you to understand some of the terminologies and ETICA symbols you find along the content shared. They all make perfect sense.

The symbols in every product and services means you can quickly identify the sustainability aspect of it. While none of these in its individual form is a solution to sustainability, they are as a whole part of strategies that improve an end product and its lifecycle.

To every product and services in this platform, it is applied a symbol in accordance to the supplier business model and goals.

Biodegradable

Decomposes naturally. Once disposed, these will break down more easily in a natural way and slowly into small parts without harming the environment. This is especially good in situations where the product or material is not disposed properly and ends in the landfill. Can be found in products or materials made of paper pulp, bamboo, cotton or Mycelium.

Carbon Offsetting

Balance your Actions. Some may see this as greenwashing, I see it as the first step of the journey for many. You can start your sustainable journey by contributing and invest in environmental projects, reducing emissions during production, use clean energy technologies, or participate in the EU Emissions Trading System (UK ETS, EU ETS – climate policies also known as cap and trade which helps to reduce emissions).

Certified

Proof on paper. These are certifications or standards in products or services that companies have gone that extra mile to comply with. While some are voluntary, they all work towards a more sustainable development. Some: B Corp (Business a Force for Good), FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) GOSTS (Global Organic Textile Standard),GRS (Global Recycle Standard), FitWel, SKA ratings (assess fit-out projects with sustainable practices) among many others.

Compostable

Organic Matter. These are items that should be discarded in appropriate bins in order to be transformed into organic matter. These are biodegradable and release nutrients into the environment when decomposed. Can be found in petrochemicals and fossil fuel free items, compostable plastics or bioplastic (cellulose, soy protein, corn and potato starches), etc.

(For best way to see how your product should be disposed always contact the manufacturers.)

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C2C - Cradle to Cradle

Reused in infinite cycles. A global standard that ensures products meet the criteria to transit from a linear system to a circular system. Where waste becomes product, and a new economy and model are created. It is a new concept on the products’ lifecycle assessment (LCA) reducing the product´s impact on the environment.

Products with a C2C label / certification are responsibly extracted, manufactured, transported, and disposed.