Natural Foods Merchandiser explored green chemistry in its November edition. Here are additional resources to learn more about the topic.

WERCsmart

Meant to simplify a retailer’s product screening process, WERCsmart’s data system provides ingredient and regulatory information on consumer products. “The first step any retailer should start at is getting an idea of if what they are selling has chemicals of concern,” says Joel Tickner, program director for the Department of Community Health and Sustainability at the University of Massachusetts.

Safemarkets.org

Although created for consumers, this new website is also useful for retailers who want the latest information on toxins in products, to connect with advocacy organizations and to find safer alternatives.  

Environmental Protection Agency Design for the Environment

Rather than focusing on natural or organic, this label helps identify safe products sold at retail, as well as used in schools, hospitals, etc. A rigorous scientific evaluation process helps prove safety and efficacy, and the website (epa.gov/dfe) boasts a comprehensive list of safe alternative ingredients and DfE-certified products.