Locally Made

Wherever possible, Greener by Nature prefers to source products that are produced locally. Not only does this support local industry, but also minimises emissions associated with their transport. Where we offer products that are manufactured outside the U.K., we always try to ensure that no air miles have been used in the distribution chain.

Organic 

The term 'organic' is extensively used to describe items that have been made from or contain components from agriculture, that use far fewer pesticides or synthetic fertilisers. Organic farming methods take a much more holistic approach and they consider the whole eco system. Much more natural methods are practised, which ensures that the health of the soil is maintained, which in turn helps protect the environment, livestock, wildlife and ultimately our own health. GM technology is also banned.

Greener by Nature will always favour products that have been made from organically grown materials and ingredients.

Sustainable

It is very important that we ensure the products that we select are made from sustainably sourced materials, for instance bamboo and wood certified by the Forestry Stewardship council.

• Bamboo  -  It is extremely fast growing and produces 35% more oxygen than the same area of trees. It does not need any sprays or chemicals to grow and is ideal for protection against soil erosion. Bamboo is actually a grass and is completely sustainable, maturing in five years compared to sixty years for a tree. It is also self generating growing from the base shoots, so it can be harvested without having to kill it and uses a fraction of the amount of water needed to grow cotton. The bamboo fibre is much softer than cotton and drapes like silk. It also has a much more effective moisture wicking property and is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, which makes it an ideal material for reducing body odour and skin irritation. Bamboo is also completely bio-degradable. green gifts eco gifts green products eco gifts eco products natural gifts for the home
• Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) - the FSC promotes responsible management of the worlds forests. Any item that carries their label ensures that you are buying a product that has been grown in well managed forests and that you are not contributing to deforestation.

Fairly Traded 

By 'Fairly Traded', we mean that the products being offered have met various criteria. These are that the people that have actually made the items have been paid a fair and decent wage. But it is not just pay that is considered however. Just as important are the conditions that they work in and whether they have access to health and welfare benefits, as well as the absolute prohibition of child labour. Support is also given to suppliers who work with and actively encourage the use of natural and sustainable materials, and work to maintain ancient skills and traditional crafts to allow communities to support themselves. Throughout the chain, ethical practices need to be followed and maintained. Some items might also be certified Fairtrade by the Fairtrade Foundation.

Recycled 

Items that are specified as 'recycled' have been made from reprocessed waste materials, thereby diverting more items away from landfill and giving them a new lease of life. Our recycled glasses made from discarded beer and wine bottles are a great example. Recycled glass for instance uses a lot less energy to produce than new and does not lose any of it's quality.