The Charlotte Jewish News- December 2025- Page 27
Bal Tashchit and Beyond: Sustainable Shopping in a Digital World
By David Rosenthal
One way to make climate-friendly choices is by shopping more sustainably— something easier said than done. In our home, we often find ourselves debating which products truly deserve the“ sustainable” label, especially when shopping online.
As online retailers multiply, so does the number of products marketed as eco-friendly. But without a single universal standard across e-commerce platforms, the term“ sustainable” can feel vague and inconsistent. Different organizations define it differently, and no one certification captures the full picture.
Third-party nonprofits help fill that gap by evaluating companies’ manufacturing practices and issuing certifications. Government programs— such as the USDA organic label or the EPA’ s Energy Star designation— offer additional clues. Many retailers highlight these icons or link to certification information directly. Still, there is no centralized authority that evaluates the credibility of every certification, so buyers must navigate a patchwork of labels and promises.
Packaging can also make online shopping feel less“ green,” yet the environmental footprint isn’ t always higher. In fact, one study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that, depending on factors such
as shipping speed, distance to a brick-and-mortar store, and distribution methods, online purchases can sometimes result in fewer emissions than driving to a store.
While there is no foolproof way to identify sustainable products, a few guidelines can help and they apply whether you’ re browsing online or shopping in person:
• Understand what sustainability measures. Certifications may focus on carbon emissions, water usage, durability, supply-chain practices, or material sourcing. A product may excel in one area and fall short in another, so it’ s important to look at the whole picture.
• Read the certifications carefully. Some labels appear directly on packaging; others are listed on manufacturer websites or on dedicated certification registries. Major retailers often include this information within product descriptions.
• Look for independent verification. If a company is serious about sustainability, it should be transparent about its environmental impact. Look for evidence of third-party audits, published impact assessments, and measurable data( such as greenhouse gas emissions or water usage). Strong certifications typically meet rigorous scientific standards and comply with recognized benchmarks such as ISO
guidelines.
Large retailers are increasingly setting expectations for their suppliers and publishing sustainability goals publicly. Walmart’ s Project Gigaton, Target’ s climate transparency reports, and Amazon’ s Climate Pledge Friendly program are examples of efforts to improve clarity. These companies provide supplier criteria, list recognized certifications, and display clear icons next to products that meet specific standards.
Jewish tradition reminds us responsibility for the world around us is not optional— it is fundamental. Caring for one another and for our environment is part of our obligation as partners in preserving creation.
To learn more about Shalom Green or to support our work, please visit www. shalomgreen- CLT. org or email info @ shalomgreenCLT. org. You can also connect with us on Facebook at Shalom Green: Shalom Park Environmental Initiative, on Instagram @ ShalomGreen, and on Twitter @ shalomgreen _ CLT.
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