A non-profit since 1989, Green Seal sets up standards and certifies the processes and products of businesses through science-based criteria provided by the EPA — Environment Protection Agency — and the Global Ecolableing Network. Analyzing both the raw materials of a product as well as how it's produced, Green Seal strives to help consumers make more responsible choices that have less of an impact on the environment. Products with Green Seal approval must also outperform or be just as effective as traditional products. And with consumers becoming more and more aware of their carbon footprint — the units of carbon gasses each person produces — it's no surprise that major corporations like 3M and Benjamin Moore have reformulated their products for Green Seal directory compliance.

Find tools for do-it-yourself compliance, or find a professional GreenSeal provider, with the following resources:

1. The GreenSeal list of services and products

2. Professional consulting for the GreenSeal approval

3. Industry-specific resources and checklists

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Go straight to the authorities for solid GreenSeal information

The GreenSeal directory of information is becoming increasingly vast. If you want the most updated and accurate information, it's best to trust the pros. They can provide your business with the most valuable local resources as well as deliver periodic publications and newsletters straight to your email account.

I recommend: Consult Greenseal.org for a list of industry-specific help in becoming "green." Environmental Media Association provides ways to keep your office and staff in compliance.

Find GreenSeal consulting firms for professional help

Have a staff so big that you need help with your GreenSeal list? Find GreenSeal consulting firms to complete an assessment of your business. From cleaning products to sugar packets, a consulting firm can help you pick biodegradeable or fair trade products that can help you demonstrate your commitment to cleaning up the environment.

I recommend: Green Seal Environmental can handle big jobs like hydrogeological investigations, as well as more routine jobs such as risk assessment. YBGreen Consulting sets up employee-driven programs that reward your staff for their "green" efforts.

Use Green Seal checklists to help you get started

Almost any kind of business can comply with eco-friendly standards with the help of compliance checklists. And a checklist will help you stay organized since nearly every task a business completes in a day, from standard operating procedures to the maintenance of powered equipment, is subject to scrutiny.

I recommend: CleanLink provides a 7-point checklist to protect human health as well as the environment. MontereyBayGreenBusiness.org provides a checklist specific to restaurants as well as resources for many other types of businesses.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Maximizing your 'green' efforts can start with free energy audits. Many non-profits and utility companies offer audits free-of-charge. Contact utility providers in your area to see if you qualify.