Concerned about how the products you buy affect animals around the world? So are an increasing number of natural brands. Here's what to look for to show your love for all things furry (and scaly and slimy and feathery).
Responsible palm oil.
Palm oil is found in products ranging from cookies to soap. But around 85 percent of it is grown on cleared rainforests in Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea that house animals like orangutans and tigers. The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil approves some palm oil, but organizations, such as the Rainforest Action Network, say the certification falls short on responsible sourcing. Instead seek brands that highlight their direct relationships with palm oil farmers to stem deforestation.
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- Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Almond Pure-Castile Bar Soap
- Earth Balance Creamy Coconut & Peanut Spread
Compassionate farms.
Do you love animals but also like to eat meat and dairy? First, try reducing your meat consumption (we love journalist Mark Bittman’s advice to eat vegan before 6 p.m.). Then, look for consciously raised animal products rated by the Global Animal Partnership or a certification seal like Certified Humane or Animal Welfare Approved—rigorous standards that ensure livestock are raised in humane conditions, such as access to pasture.
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Read labels.
Combat animal testing by purchasing personal care and household products that pledge to never use animals to test for efficacy or safety. Look for either the Cruelty-Free label from PETA or the Leaping Bunny certification, which requires brands to not only avoid animal testing on the finished product but also source ingredients from suppliers who don’t test on animals, either.
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