Eco-Labels in Australia and Greenwashing: How to Tell What’s Real

Sustainability is everywhere these days—on packaging, in ads, and splashed across product descriptions. But with so many products claiming to be “eco-friendly” or “sustainable,” how do you know if a brand is genuinely doing good for the planet or just putting on a green front?

This is where eco-labels and sustainability certifications come in. These little symbols on packaging are meant to help consumers make informed choices and hold brands accountable. But here’s the catch—not all eco-labels are actually real. Some are backed by rigorous standards, while others are nothing more than clever marketing.

So, how do you cut through the noise and make sure you’re truly shopping sustainably? Let’s break it down.

What Are Green Labels, and Why Do They Matter?

Eco-labels in Australia are certifications awarded to products that meet specific environmental and ethical standards. Unlike vague claims such as “green,” “natural,” or “eco-conscious” (which could mean just about anything), a genuine eco-label means that the product has been assessed and certified by an independent organisation—not just the brand itself.

Without Green labelling, it’s easy for companies to greenwash their products—making them seem environmentally friendly when, in reality, they aren’t doing much to reduce their impact.

By recognising trusted green labels, you can avoid falling for misleading marketing and instead support businesses that are genuinely committed to sustainability.

Key Sustainability Certifications in Australia

If you want to make greener choices, here are some trusted eco-labels in Australia to look out for:

1. Australian Certified Organic (ACO)

One of the most recognised eco-labels in Australia, ACO ensures that a product is free from synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It also means the product meets strict sustainability and animal welfare standards.  Although brands can plaster a label across their products noting that it’s ‘Organic’ they only have to have 1 ingredient in the whole product that is organic, to be able to do this.  This means the rest can be made up of what ever they want!

🧐 Look for: The ‘Bud’ logo—a trusted symbol of high organic standards.

2. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

FSC certification guarantees that paper, wood, and bamboo products come from responsibly managed forests. This means no illegal logging, no contribution to deforestation, and sustainable forestry practices.

🧐 Look for: The FSC label, which may indicate 100% certified materials, recycled content, or a mix of both.

3. Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA)

GECA certification covers a broad range of products, from furniture and flooring to cleaning supplies. It ensures that items meet strict environmental, health, and ethical standards—giving you peace of mind about what you're bringing into your home.’

🧐 Look for: The GECA tick, a reliable sign of sustainability.

4. Australian Recycling Label (ARL) – Planet Ark

Recycling in Australia isn’t always straightforward—some materials can go in your kerbside bin, while others require special disposal. The ARL label helps by providing clear, standardised instructions on how to properly recycle different types of packaging.

🧐 Look for: The ARL label, which includes details like ‘Recycle’, ‘Check Locally’, or ‘Not Recyclable’.

5. Rainforest Alliance Certified

This global certification applies to products like coffee, tea, cocoa, and bananas. It ensures they are sourced from sustainable farms that protect biodiversity, worker rights, and natural resources.

🧐 Look for: The green frog logo, a sign of ethical farming and sustainable sourcing.

6. Energy Rating Label

Appliances can be huge energy guzzlers, and that’s where this label comes in. The Energy Rating Label helps you compare the efficiency of different appliances—more stars mean lower energy use and lower electricity bills.

🧐 Look for: The red and yellow star label—the more stars, the better!

7. Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) Scheme

Similar to the Energy Rating Label, WELS helps consumers choose water-efficient products like taps, toilets, and washing machines. A more efficient product means less water wastage and lower bills.

🧐 Look for: The blue WELS label, rated from one to six stars.

8. Vegan Australia Certified

This certification guarantees that a product contains no animal ingredients, no animal testing, and no animal exploitation in any part of its production. It’s useful for vegans, but also for anyone looking to make ethical purchasing decisions.

🧐 Look for: The Vegan Australia Certified logo.

How to Spot Greenwashing

Even with green labels around, some brands still try to mislead consumers with greenwashing. Here are a few sneaky tricks to watch out for:

🚩 Vague Claims Without Proof
If a product is labelled “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” without any certification or explanation, that’s a red flag. Real sustainability claims come with third-party verification or confirmation as to why and how they are.

🚩 Misleading Imagery
A product covered in green leaves, cute animals, or earthy tones isn’t necessarily sustainable. Always check for a recognised certification rather than relying on branding.

🚩 Fake or Unrecognised Certifications
Some brands invent their own “certified eco” symbols to appear more sustainable than they really are. If you don’t recognise a certification, do a quick check on the certifying organisation’s website.

🚩 Selective Truths
A brand might highlight one eco-friendly feature while ignoring others. For example, a product might be labelled as “biodegradable,” but still contain harmful toxins,  Always read the fine print to get the full picture.

Why Eco Cheeks Takes Sustainability Seriously

At Eco Cheeks, we believe that sustainability should be real, not just a marketing buzzword. That’s why our bamboo tissue products are certified to meet the highest environmental standards. We’re transparent about our certifications, our materials, and our process—so when we say sustainable, we mean it.

Shop Smarter, Make a Difference

Understanding eco-labels in Australia and all over the world gives you the power to make choices that align with your values. The next time you’re shopping, take a moment to check for trusted certifications—because small, informed choices can add up to a big impact.

And remember, if a product sounds too good to be true, it probably is—so always look beyond the label!