As consumers become more aware of environmental issues, they also become more informed about how the items they buy can make a difference. We are bombarded on all sides with product information and advertisements regarding the health and environmental benefits of all types of goods and services. One has to wonder whether these claims and seals of approval are always honest or whether they are just a marketing tool. According to the Oxford dictionary, eco-labelling is the practice of marking products with a distinctive label to demonstrate that their manufacture complies with recognized environmental standards. (Oxford Press)Greenpeace provides a definition of Greenwashing as the act of misleading consumers about a company's environmental practices or the environmental benefits of a product or service. (“What is it?”) In other words, greenwashing is when a company, manufacturer, or organization spends its money advertising and marketing its product or service as “green” instead of investing its money in research and development to actually minimize the impact of that product. environmental impact. (“What is Greenwashing?”) Eco-labeling has been used around the world since the late 1970s. There are over thirty different labels and logos in use, and most organizations awarding labels and certifications are run on a voluntary basis. These third parties review, test, and evaluate products and services to determine whether they meet established criteria before granting certification or approval. The German "Blue Angel" eco-label, the world's first national program, was introduced in 1977. ("Hong Kong Green Label Scheme") Green Seal, a non-profit organization in the Unity..... . half of the paper ...... Np, 20 March 2014. Web. 14 April 2014. industria-18000-organic-operazioni-certificate-nei-noi-solo/> Oxford Press, . "eco-labelling". Oxford Dictionaries - English. Oxford Press and Web. 8 April 2014. .Sheets, Connor Adams. "Wal-Mart is quietly building an organic empire...." International Business Times. NP, April 12, 2014. Web. April 14, 2014. “What is Greenwashing?” Greenwashing Index: Helps keep advertising honest. Enviromedia Social Marketing and Web. April 14, 2014. "What is it about?" Stop greenwashing. Greenpeace and Web. 14 April 2014. .