2010-Eco-friendly, Green, and Sustainable: Controversy, Credibility, Reality, and Possibilities

Eco-friendly, Green, and Sustainable: Controversy, Credibility, Reality, and Possibilities

Ian R. Hardin, University of Georgia


Introduction

Regardless of the sometimes partisan connotations given to discussion of concern for the
environment, there is little doubt that interest in practices and products that might be touted as ecofriendly, green or sustainable has increased and will likely continue to do so in the future.
It may well be true that these terms are often not well defined, or in some cases may be scientifically naïve, but their influence in the market should not be underestimated.
Given the recent fiasco with “bamboo”fibers and the negative publicity resulting from
government action in both the U.S. and Canada, reliable information, understanding and maintenance of credibility are essential for those trying to meet the interest and desires of consumers for “green” products.
This paper will examine the terms involved with the “green” movement as it relates
to fibers, fabrics and apparel, surveys the efforts by the industry to deal with such changes, and looks at the likely continuing questions related to true “environmentally friendly” practices and products, and the need to preserve credibility while providing consumers with products that realistically meet their desires.