Now in its seventh edition, this year’s Issue with Tissue spotlights the urgent need for more responsible fiber sourcing and transparent sustainability practices in the paper sector – the same priorities Green Seal targeted in the newest version of our certification standard for sanitary paper products.

The NRDC scorecard recognizes Green Seal’s standard for aligning with these priorities by requiring recycled content or sustainably sourced alternative fibers and promoting chlorine-free bleaching processes. “The standard helps strengthen sector-wide consistency around verifiable sustainability benchmarks and, like this scorecard, guides consumers toward more forest- and climate-friendly product choices,” NRDC writes.  

This year’s Issue with Tissue Seventh Edition report scored152 household toilet paper, paper towel, and facial tissue products. Of those, 36 received an “A” or “A+” and 36 earned a “B” or “B+” grade, largely due to their use of recycled or sustainably sourced bamboo fibers. Five manufacturers of the highest-scoring products helped to develop the latest version of Green Seal’s standard as part of our Sanitary Paper Standard Working Group. 

Our Standard for Sanitary Paper Products, updated in July, covers toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, and related products. It defines sustainability leadership across five core elements: safer chemicals, responsible fiber sourcing, low-impact manufacturing, sustainable packaging, and verified performance and claims. Each requirement is grounded in the latest science and informed by broad stakeholder feedback. 

The alignment of our standard and the NRDC’s Issue with Tissue report helps strengthen an industry-wide benchmark that allows manufacturers, purchasers, and consumers to identify what truly makes tissue products more sustainable. 

Consumers looking for products that meet the sustainability criteria in the Issue with Tissue report and meet our standards can find them by checking for the Green Seal Certification Mark on product packaging or by browsing our certified directory.

We sat down with Matt Schenk (President & CEO) and Jamey Gaston (Vice President of Quality, Science, and Regulatory Affairs) from Midlab to learn more about how the company formulated its product without PFAS, what this certification means for customers, and how innovation in safer chemistry is shaping the future of floor care.

What prompted Midlab to explore PFAS alternatives?

At Midlab, sustainability has never been a marketing tagline, it’s part of our DNA. We’ve always strived to lead the industry in real, measurable sustainable practices. Our journey toward no added PFAS formulations was a natural extension of that commitment.

We were among the first cleaning chemical manufacturers to achieve LEED® Gold certification for our manufacturing facility, demonstrating our dedication to responsible operations and environmental stewardship. We also served on several early sustainability steering committees, worked closely with the University of Tennessee to advance sustainable cleaning practices, and were proud to be part of the first certification under Green Seal GS-42 for cleaning services.

Our drive to eliminate PFAS aligns with the same forward-thinking mindset that led us to reduce plastic waste through innovations like our FlexMax® packaging, which replaces rigid plastic containers with lighter, more sustainable alternatives.

In short, exploring PFAS alternatives was a proactive decision, not because regulations required it, but because leadership in sustainability requires anticipating challenges and developing safer, smarter solutions for our customers and the planet.

What were the biggest challenges in formulating your floor finish without PFAS?

PFAS compounds have historically played a key role in helping finishes spread uniformly, especially when applied with simple tools like string mops. Replacing that functionality without sacrificing performance required deep formulation expertise.

Our scientists researched various alternatives to identify suitable materials that delivered the same smooth, even coating and long-lasting gloss across multiple surfaces such as terrazzo, vinyl composition tile, and linoleum under varying conditions and through multiple coats.

Achieving that level of performance consistently without adding PFAS to our formulations was a scientific and engineering challenge, but one we met with determinations and innovation.

What does this milestone mean for Midlab’s customers and the industry as a whole?

This milestone affirms our belief that embracing and driving change matters. Developing one of the first no added PFAS, third-party certified floor finish isn’t just a product achievement; it’s proof that sustainable innovation and performance can coexist.

For our customers, it means confidence. Confidence that the products they rely on every day are safer for people, better for the environment, and compliant with emerging regulations without sacrificing results. It’s a direct reflection of our commitment to protect not only the surfaces being cleaned, but also the people who use these products and the occupants of the spaces they maintain.

For the industry, it signals meaningful progress. We’re proud to stand alongside other great industry leaders, such as Spartan Chemical and others, who share this commitment to sustainable chemistry. Together, we’re demonstrating that our industry truly cares about the full life cycle of our products, from raw materials and packaging to performance and end use.

Ultimately, this milestone represents a collective shift toward accountability, transparency, and environmental responsibility that benefits everyone, from manufacturers to end users to the communities we serve.

Why was Green Seal certification the right fit for Midlab’s sustainability goals?

Green Seal was a natural fit for Midlab because they share our core belief that true sustainability and high performance go hand in hand. Like us, they understand that our industry must not only embrace change, but also lead it.

For more than three decades, Green Seal has set the benchmark for environmental responsibility in cleaning and facility care. Their long history of credibility and scientific rigor made them one of the first and most respected voices driving sustainability across our industry. That credibility matters to us and to our customers.

Partnering with Green Seal ensures that our no added PFAS innovations are independently verified, giving customers the assurance that our products meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and environmental stewardship.

In many ways, pursuing Green Seal certification was not just about earning a label; it was about aligning with an organization that shares our vision for the future of professional cleaning, a future where sustainability is the standard, not the exception.

What advice would you give to other manufacturers exploring product innovation to avoid PFAS?

My advice is simple: invest in the future of the industry. Don’t view PFAS removal as a compliance exercise; see it as an opportunity to lead.

Innovation should always aim for better performance and improved sustainability, not one at the expense of the other. That means investing in new chemistry, testing, and collaboration early in the process, even when the path isn’t easy or immediately profitable. Our industry has a responsibility to protect the people who use our products and the environments they impact. By striving for cleaner, safer, high-performing solutions today, manufacturers can help shape a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow for the entire cleaning industry.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used chemical in plastic and resin manufacturing. Prized for its utility in consumer goods, BPA is also known to interfere with the body’s endocrine system. Still used today in some food packaging, plastic containers, and receipts, BPA’s long-term impacts are still being studied.

BPA is among the many chemicals we prohibit in Green Seal-certified product packaging to ensure products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet.

Here, we’ll delve into how BPA functions, how you might be exposed to it, and how to reduce your risk of exposure to this hazardous chemical.

What Is Bisphenol A?

Bisphenol A is a synthetic compound primarily used to produce polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These materials are known for their strength, clarity, and resistance to heat and impact, and are used to make water bottles and food storage containers, among many other products.

BPA is classified as an endocrine disruptor — a chemical that can interfere with the body’s hormone system. BPA closely resembles estrogen, a hormone that regulates many biological processes. Because of this similarity, BPA can bind to estrogen receptors and either mimic or block the hormone’s normal activity. This can overstimulate hormonal pathways and interfere with normal hormone signaling, leading to developmental changes.

Invented over a century ago, BPA is produced en masse today. In fact, millions of tons are produced annually. Its widespread presence in consumer products and its effects on the human body have made it one of the most studied chemicals of the modern era.

BPA in Consumer Products

BPA can be found in everyday products both as a product feature and as a result of the product’s packaging. It’s commonly found in:

• Polycarbonate plastics
  Used in reusable water bottles, cleaning product bottles, food storage containers and eyewear.
• Epoxy resin linings
  Coatings on the inside of paint cans and canned foods and beverages, designed to prevent corrosion and contamination.
• Thermal paper
  Used in receipts, tickets, and labels due to BPA’s ability to act as a heat-sensitive developer, although BPA is slowly being phased out of these materials.

BPA can leach from containers into everyday products — especially when plastics are heated or deteriorating — or be absorbed through the skin after handling items such as receipts. As a result, nearly all people tested in national biomonitoring studies show some level of BPA in their bodies.

Health Risks of BPA

Scientific studies link BPA to a range of health effects, including:

• Reproductive disorders
• Neurodevelopmental delays
• Immune system dysfunction
• Increased risk of hormone-related cancers

Some studies also suggest a possible link between BPA exposure and health conditions including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration maintains that BPA is safe at the very low levels found in some foods, though it banned the chemical in baby bottles and sippy cups and continues to review emerging evidence. However, several U.S. states have enacted bans on BPA in food-contact materials. Meanwhile, the European Food Safety Authority took a very strict stance in 2023, lowering the tolerable daily intake of BPA by 20,000-fold — from 4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day to just 0.2 nanograms — based on a large body of new evidence linking even low-level exposure to possible effects on the immune system, hormone regulation, and development.

Many brands have already shifted toward “BPA-free” alternatives, often in response to consumer demand rather than regulatory mandates.

Reducing BPA Exposure

Unfortunately, avoiding the health impacts associated with BPA isn’t as simple as looking for products with BPA-free marketing claims. Because Bisphenol A has earned a bad reputation with consumers, many manufacturers have replaced it with other bisphenols like Bisphenol S or Bisphenol F that have a lower public profile but are linked to similar health concerns.

The good news is that being aware of products that may contain BPA and being careful how you use them can help you avoid exposure:

• Avoid microwaving or heating food in plastic containers
• Choose fresh or frozen foods instead of canned, when possible
• Look for glass, stainless steel or silicone containers and water bottles

Here, I’ll break down what’s in this new standard and why it matters for brands and buyers. 

Why did Green Seal develop a new standard for sanitary paper? 

Green Seal has long been a top certifier of eco-friendly 100% recycled towel and tissue products. In fact, Green Seal-certified products from leading brands saved 8.5 million metric tons of CO2 emissions last year — the emissions equivalent of taking 2 million cars off the road.  

Now, for the first time, we have added a certification pathway for tree-free alternatives. This means that brands that produce responsibly sourced bamboo sanitary paper can verify their sustainability achievement.  

We also strengthened our criteria for chemical ingredients, manufacturing processes, and packaging materials to reflect what true leadership looks like for towel and tissue products today. 

How did Green Seal develop this standard? 

We developed the standard with extensive research into the environmental and human health impacts of producing and using towel and tissue products. We also sought expertise from the technical and subject matter experts on our Sanitary Paper Products Working Group, which comprises representatives from retailers, industry associations, environmental advocates, manufacturers, and buyers.  

As always, we released our draft standard for public review and comment before finalizing it.  

What’s in the sanitary paper standard? 

The standard defines sustainability leadership in this product category as meeting the following criteria: 

• Responsible Sourcing: Products are made from 100% recycled content or responsibly sourced alternative fibers (such as agricultural residue or bamboo) that achieve substantial savings in carbon emissions and protect ancient and endangered forests. 

• Safer Chemicals: Products use chlorine-free bleaching (for recycled products) or elemental chlorine-free bleaching (for alternative fiber products) and are made without fragrances, PFAS, and other harmful chemicals. 

• Low-Impact Manufacturing: Products are manufactured with reduced water and energy use at a facility with a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The manufacturer provides a safe and hygienic workplace, fair wages and working conditions, and ensures freedom from discrimination and harassment. 

• Sustainable Packaging: Products use recyclable or minimized packaging.  

What makes Green Seal’s standard different from others? 

Two things make our certification standard different from others. First, our standard ensures that Green Seal-certified products never contain any virgin tree fiber. They either use 100% recycled fiber, or they use alternative fiber like bamboo. This means they save more carbon and provide greater protection to ancient and endangered forests than products that earn certifications that allow the use of virgin tree fiber.  

Second, our certification standard moves beyond fiber content to require sustainability leadership across the product lifecycle.  

This is the first comprehensive sustainability standard for bamboo tissue products. Like fiber-only certification standards, it requires bamboo fibers to be sourced from responsibly managed forests. But it also requires: 

• fiber analysis testing to ensure supply chain integrity; 

• low-impact manufacturing practices; 

• safer chemical ingredients, and  

• responsible packaging. 

Meeting this standard is a differentiator for brands that are truly committed to sustainability leadership. 

Why is sustainability important in this product category? 

Americans consume an average total of 19.2 billion pounds a year of sanitary paper products, and these single-use products leave a hefty environmental footprint.  

Sanitary paper production contributes heavily to deforestation, denuding 28 million acres of the ecologically valuable Boreal forest in a 20-year period – an area roughly the size of Ohio.  

Also, converting virgin wood into pulp is an extremely energy-intensive process. Papermaking is the third-largest energy consuming manufacturing sector, after chemicals and petroleum and coal products. In fact, products made from virgin tree fiber can generate three times as many CO₂ emissions as products made from other types of pulp.  

Making paper from virgin tree fiber also guzzles massive amounts of water, demanding more than 24 billion gallons a day. 

Choosing Green Seal-certified sanitary paper products is a simple way to reduce your carbon footprint and protect precious natural resources.  

Where can people learn more about the standard? 

As a mission-driven, nonprofit organization, we always make our standards publicly available. You can find the full standard here, and you can find certified products in our certified product directory.

Carcinogens are both intentionally and unintentionally added to a wide range of products and may be chemical, physical, or biological in nature. They are cancer-causing agents capable of disrupting normal cellular processes. Scientists have identified more than 100 substances as known carcinogens, and there are thousands more that are considered possible or probable. 

Carcinogens are among the many harmful chemicals we prohibit in Green Seal-certified products to ensure products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet. 

Here, we’ll examine what carcinogens are, how and where they’re used, and how to reduce your exposure to this hazardous group. 

What are Carcinogens? 

Carcinogens, by definition, are substances that can cause or contribute to cancer. They do this by interfering with how cells grow and divide — damaging DNA, disrupting normal cellular controls, or promoting chronic inflammation — which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and ultimately, cancer.  

Carcinogens are classified by leading scientific organizations based on the strength of evidence linking them to cancer in humans or animals. For example, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) regularly review scientific data to determine whether a substance should be considered a known, probable, or possible human carcinogen. 

Carcinogens can occur naturally or be man-made. They are sometimes intentionally added to products for functional purposes but also appear as contaminants from raw materials or chemical reactions.  

Carcinogens in Consumer Products 

Carcinogens can find their way into everyday products both as intentionally added ingredients and as contaminants. They can be found in everything from air fresheners and cleaning supplies to cosmetics and food packaging. 

Carcinogens can leach out or break down, especially if a product is exposed to heat or heavy use. This increases the chances that we’ll breathe them in, get them on our skin, or accidentally ingest them. Sometimes residues from these chemicals can persist in the environment, contaminating water, soil, and food sources.  

Common Examples of Carcinogens  

Several widely recognized carcinogens are found in consumer products. This list of carcinogens includes: 

• Benzene  
  Benzene can be found in some adhesives, cleaning agents, paints, and paint strippers. Chronic exposure is strongly linked to blood cancers such as leukemia. 

• Asbestos  
  Once common in insulation and fireproofing materials, asbestos exposure is associated with mesothelioma and lung cancer. 

• Formaldehyde  
  Formaldehyde is sometimes used as a preservative or bonding agent in building materials and personal care items and is classified as a probable human carcinogen. 

The Risks of Carcinogens 

There’s no completely safe level of exposure to a confirmed carcinogen. But the level of risk depends on how much you’re exposed to, for how long, and how it enters your body. 

Some exposure is hard to avoid, especially from environmental sources. But we can reduce the risk by choosing safer products and advocating for stronger regulations. While many harmful substances have been banned or restricted, others are still prevalent — sometimes because safer options haven’t been found yet or because they’re still allowed in certain products. 

Despite their known risks, products do not always disclose carcinogens. To minimize your exposure to these harmful ingredients: 

• Look for reputable third-party certifications, such as Green Seal®, which evaluate and restrict carcinogenic ingredients in certified products. 

• If products are not certified, choose ones with full ingredient disclosure, avoiding those that list vague terms such as “fragrance” or “preservatives” without specifics. 

• Improve indoor air quality by increasing ventilation and avoiding products that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde. 

• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and respirators to reduce the chance of inhaling or touching products with carcinogens, when alternatives are not available. 

• Stay informed about recalls and health advisories related to carcinogenic contaminants in consumer goods, food, and water. 

Heavy metals are widely used in industrial, agricultural, and technological applications, as well as in consumer products. In cleaning and personal care products, heavy metals may be used to improve product longevity, enhance colorfastness, act as antimicrobial agents, or function as preservatives, binders, or stabilizers.  

Despite their utility, many heavy metals raise significant health and environmental concerns. This group of ingredients are among the many harmful chemicals we prohibit in Green Seal-certified products and their packaging to ensure they meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet. 

Here, we’ll dive into what heavy metals are, where and why they’re used in consumer products, and how to limit your interactions with this group of elements. 

What are Heavy Metals? 

Heavy metals are metallic elements with a high atomic weight and a density at least five times greater than water. Elements in this category can be beneficial or toxic to humans — or sometimes both depending on exposure level. 

The list of heavy metals of concern includes arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, nickel, and thallium. 

Unlike organic pollutants, heavy metals do not degrade over time and can remain in the environment indefinitely. This persistence and ability to accumulate in biological tissues make them particularly hazardous. 

In Green Seal-certified products, we prohibit any ingredients that bioaccumulate. Eliminating these chemicals from the supply chain ultimately reduces their persistence in our environment and bodies. 

Where Heavy Metals are Used in Consumer Products 

Heavy metals and their compounds are used in consumer products as aggregates, colorants, conductors, disinfectants, and preservatives, to name a few functions.  

Certain heavy metals are intentionally added in a variety of consumer products: 

• Lead can be found in batteries, paints, and some cosmetics such as lipstick, eyeliner, and nail polish 
• Mercury is used in thermometers and fluorescent light bulbs 
• Cadmium is prevalent in rechargeable batteries, pigments, and coatings 
• Arsenic is used in wood preservatives and pesticides 
• Silver and zinc compounds are sometimes used in deodorants, wound care products, and surface cleaners 
• Aluminum compounds can be found in antiperspirants 

Heavy metals also manifest as contaminants from raw materials, manufacturing equipment, or packaging processes in a host of products including cleaning, floor care, and personal care products, cosmetics, and paints.  

The Health Risks of Heavy Metals 

Many heavy metals and heavy metal compounds are associated with significant adverse health effects. While not all heavy metals are toxic in small amounts, and some — such as zinc, iron, and copper — are essential for biological functions, excessive or prolonged exposure often are hazardous. 

The adverse health impacts of heavy metal exposure include neurological damage, kidney disease, bone disorders, and increased risk of cancer. Children are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of heavy metals, which can impair development and cause lasting cognitive and behavioral issues. Regulatory agencies worldwide have established guidelines to limit exposure to these known neurotoxins, carcinogens, and endocrine disruptors. 

Limiting Exposure  

Being aware of the products you use and the places you spend time can help reduce your exposure to the most toxic heavy metals. Since heavy metal toxicity depends on the chemical form, and level and duration of exposure, limiting your interactions with them is often enough to avoid harm. Steer clear of the most toxic heavy metals by being cautious with old or imported products that may not meet current local safety standards, and check ingredient labels on:  

• Packaging materials 
• Cleaning products 
• Paints 
• Floor finishes 
• Cosmetics 
• Personal care items 

To be confident your cleaning, personal care, and other household products don’t contain hazardous heavy metals, look for reputable ecolabels like Green Seal. We prohibit these and other harmful ingredients to ensure certified products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet. 

The LEED v5.0 Rating System specifies Green Seal’s standards for cleaners and degreasers, floor care products, sanitary paper, hand care and hand sanitizers, paints, trash bags, and commercial cleaning services. Specifically:

• Using Green Seal-certified products for at least 75% of a building’s cleaning products and materials earns:
  • 1 point in the Green Cleaning Credit (O&M)

• Using a Green Seal-certified cleaning service earns:
  • 1 point in the Green Cleaning Credit (O&M)

• Green Seal-certified paint:
  • Contributes toward 1 point for the Materials & Resources: Building Product Selection & Procurement Credit (BD&C and ID&C)
  • Contributes 1 product toward the Material & Resources: Low-Emitting Materials Credit (BD&C)

Green Seal is specified in five product and service categories in the Green Cleaning Credit – more than any other third-party standard. Using Green Seal-certified green cleaning products and a Green Seal-certified cleaning service together qualifies projects for 5% of the 40 points buildings need to earn the minimum level LEED® certification.

The updated USGBC rating system is the most recent among hundreds of standards and policies that use Green Seal as shorthand for proven-safer products. That’s because sustainability leaders recognize that our science-based standards demand leadership at every stage of the product lifecycle. Together with the manufacturers in our community, we will continue to ensure the Green Seal certification mark helps buyers cut through the chaos to find products that meet truly comprehensive health and sustainability standards — from beginning to end.

Mercury is a naturally occurring element with a long history of industrial, scientific, and medicinal use. Despite its utility, mercury is a highly toxic substance associated with serious health and environmental risks. As a known neurotoxin, its presence in consumer products — even in trace amounts — can be hazardous. 

Mercury is among the many harmful ingredients we prohibit in Green Seal-certified products to ensure products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet.

Here, we’ll explore what mercury is, how it’s commonly used, and steps consumers can take to limit exposure. 

What is Mercury? 

Mercury is a unique heavy metal, in that it is a liquid at room temperature. In addition to elemental mercury, this metal exists in the environment as both inorganic mercury compounds and organic mercury compounds such as methylmercury. Each form varies in toxicity, environmental persistence, and exposure risk. 

Historically, mercury has been used in a wide range of applications — from early medical treatments and thermometers to modern electronics and lighting. Its high density, electrical conductivity, and ability to form amalgams with other metals make it particularly valuable in technical fields. However, the same properties that make mercury useful also contribute to its potential for harm. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin, and its bioaccumulative nature allows it to persist in ecosystems and enter the food chain. 

Mercury in Consumer Products 

Although regulatory restrictions have significantly reduced mercury’s use, it still appears in several everyday items. Elemental mercury is commonly found in older batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, thermostats, and certain medical devices such as thermometers and blood pressure monitors. Mercury compounds may also be present in dental amalgams and antiseptics. This heavy metal also lurks in less obvious places, both as a functional ingredient and as a contaminant. For instance, you may find mercury in consumer products such as cleaning agents, skin lightening creams, toothpaste, bar soaps, gel dishwashing detergents, and even bleached paper and packaging products. 

The Health Risks of Mercury 

Exposure to mercury, even in small amounts, can have serious health consequences. Mercury targets the central nervous system and kidneys, and is especially harmful to developing fetuses and young children. Neurological symptoms of mercury exposure may include tremors, memory loss, cognitive impairment, and motor dysfunction. Prolonged exposure can also affect cardiovascular and immune health. 

Mercury can enter the body through inhalation of vapors, ingestion of contaminated food or products, or through skin absorption. Once absorbed, mercury can accumulate in tissues and remain in the body for extended periods, increasing long-term health risks. In addition to direct consumer exposure, mercury is released from industrial emissions, improper disposal of mercury-containing products, and natural events such as volcanic eruptions. 

Reducing Your Exposure 

While global and national regulations have reduced the prevalence of mercury in manufacturing, you can further reduce your exposure to this heavy metal by: 

• Choosing cleaning and personal care products certified by trusted third parties, such as Green Seal, which screen formulations for heavy metals and other hazardous ingredients. 
• Avoiding uncertified personal care and household products that lack full ingredient transparency or originate from unregulated markets. 
• Properly disposing of products containing mercury by following local hazardous waste disposal guidelines.

Why is sustainability important to Cascades?

Cascades is a leader in the recovery and manufacturing of environmentally friendly packaging and hygiene products. Our business model is based on circular economy and eco-design principles. Sustainability has been integral to our company’s DNA since 1964. Our mission is to improve the well-being of people, communities, and the planet by providing sustainable and innovative solutions that create value. Over the years, Cascades remained a sustainability leader largely owing to its extensive material recovery and recycling activities, ambitious sustainability action plans driving positive improvements, extensive employee benefits programs, and active support for countless organizations and causes. We are sustainability experts who care in maximizing our partners’ business potential while minimizing their environmental footprint. For the past six years, we have been recognized among the most sustainable corporations in the world according to the Global 100 by Corporate Knights.

Which product, innovation, or accomplishment are you most proud of from a sustainability standpoint?

This year, we developed the Cascades PRO Perform Premium Multifold Hand Towel: A new premium multifold towel made with 100% recycled fibers, offering a level of performance and quality that rivals other premium options on the market that are mainly made with virgin fibers. We are incredibly proud to provide another sustainable solution with the Green Seal mark without compromising on quality, all at a competitive price. This innovation underscores our dedication to sustainability, demonstrating that top-tier products can combine high- performance and lower environmental impacts.

What kind of health or sustainability features and information are your customers looking for today?

We believe our customers are looking for tissue paper products that ensure their health and safety by avoiding harmful substances and chemicals during the manufacturing process. They are also looking for products and packaging that embody high environmental standards, including the use of recycled and recyclable materials as well as reduced footprints thanks to sustainable manufacturing and operations. Third-party certifications are crucial allies in ensuring that consumer products meet high health, safety, and environmental standards which reflect our added value proposal. Certifications like Green Seal, which focuses on product-specific criteria including chlorine-free processes and packaging recyclability for better end-of-life management, are essential for Cascades PRO® in providing products that meet high customer standards and requirements for safe ingredients and restricted substances.

How do you choose your ecolabel partners?

At Cascades, the selection of ecolabel partners is based on our values as a company and our commitment to offering quality products that meet our health and sustainability standards. Certifications are a stamp of credibility for us, and they demonstrate our customer integrity and dedication to our values. We believe our customers want to work with suppliers that share their commitment to sustainability. To us, the Green Seal label is a clear testament to the fact that Cascades’ products meet high environmental standards, which differentiates us from the competition.

How do you use Green Seal certification in your business?

We highlight our Green Seal-certified products in our communications, including sales material, marketing tools, and social media platforms. We also put the Green Seal mark on our packaging.

What’s next for Cascades?

Cascades continues to develop its sustainability expertise and leadership through innovative products and packaging solutions. We will also demonstrate our commitment through a renewed sustainability agenda, as our current sustainability action plan ends in 2025. Ambitious and science-based approaches will remain key for us, in alignment with the expectations of our stakeholders. Recycled content continues to be an important component of our business model, as well as initiatives such as third-party certifications, to support our goals and those of our business partners in our common journey for a more sustainable future.

Tell us the story behind Force of Nature.

We created Force of Nature to make cleaning healthy and safe for people and our planet. We learned about a technology called electrolyzed water that was being used in the industrial space, where an antibacterial called hypochlorous acid is made from salt, water, and electricity. Hypochlorous acid is so safe and effective that it is used in wound healing and eye care products, but it had never been developed into a consumer product because it has a short shelf life. We thought that if we could create a countertop appliance that created hypochlorous acid fresh, it would be perfect for the cleaning category because traditional cleaning products are so unhealthy. We were able to design Force of Nature, our first appliance, to create a multi-purpose cleaner and EPA registered disinfectant that kills 99.9% of germs. People loved being able to clean around their kids and pet without having to worry about dangerous fumes and residues, and without single-use plastic bottles.

What product, innovation, or accomplishment are you most proud of from a sustainability standpoint?

Our Force of Nature appliance solves two major sustainability problems with traditional cleaners. First, our system replaces single-use plastic bottles with a little capsule of salt, water, and vinegar, so our customers can reduce their plastic waste by 98%. Our carbon footprint is actually ten times smaller than that of a typical cleaning product. In addition, Force of Nature eliminates the problem of toxic chemicals like quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) going into our water systems. Quats are ubiquitous in disinfectants and have been found in water and wastewater, and they’ve been shown to be toxic to aquatic life. There are also concerns about their persistence in the environment leading to antibiotic resistant bacteria. We are really proud to have developed a multi-surface cleaner and disinfectant that is safe for people and our environment.

What kind of health or sustainability features and information are your customers looking for today?

We have two types of customers. Families who use Force of Nature to keep their homes clean are looking for safe ingredients because they clean around their children and pets so frequently. That means they want to avoid ingredients like bleach, quats, phthalates, dyes, and fragrances. They don’t have time for rinsing and wiping off toxic residues. Families are also looking for easy ways to be more sustainable that don’t cost a lot. We have business customers who are looking for non-toxic ingredients because they’re concerned about the health and safety of their employees and customers. About 30% of US adults have asthma or allergies, and the CDC recommends not using cleaners with bleach, quats, or fragrances around this population. Businesses are also looking to reduce their carbon footprints and want to do that while lowering their operating costs.

Why do you think consumers are responding to refillable cleaning systems right now?

Refillable cleaning systems like Force of Nature dramatically reduce plastic waste, are much cheaper to ship, and can save a ton of space. Our system saves people up to 80% per ounce versus traditional cleaning products, which is pretty unique in the cleaning category. Typically, the “greener” products cost more than traditional cleaners, but we knew that we had to provide cost-savings if we were going to make Force of Nature accessible to everyone. Force of Nature reduces waste by 98%, and from a space-savings standpoint, it reduces storage space by 93% versus typical bottled cleaners. We give people the gift of extra cabinet space!

Why do you partner with Green Seal?

Green Seal brings us credibility that our products are highly effective and safe for people and our planet. We’re offering a totally new approach to cleaning – no one has ever made an EPA registered disinfectant on their countertop with salt, water, and vinegar before! We knew that a Green Seal partnership would reassure our customers that our product really delivers what we say it does, in terms of cleaning efficacy and environmental impact. We chose Green Seal as our first partner because they have so much credibility with consumers.

How has Green Seal certification impacted your business?

Green Seal certification has helped us to overcome the skepticism that comes from being an unknown brand with an unknown technology. It can be hard to believe that you can transform salt, water, and vinegar into a cleaner as effective as bleach – one that kills staph, MRSA, norovirus, etc. Being able to show customers our Green Seal certification has allowed us to convert at-home customers and business customers that we might not have been able to convert otherwise.

What’s next for Force of Nature?

There are lots of unmet needs in the cleaning category, and so much to clean! It’s a category that a lot of people dislike because of the toxic chemicals, the drudgery of the cleaning experience, and the expense. We recently tackled laundry detergent by launching laundry detergent sheets that allow people to eliminate all those heavy plastic jugs. We’ve got new products coming for our business customers who want to be more sustainable but need to do it while reducing costs. We’ve got a lot more innovations in the works to make cleaning healthier and safer for people and our planet!

Benzene is a widely used chemical in industrial applications and consumer products. It is one of a group of chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released into indoor air as gases that cause adverse health effects.  

Benzene is a high-hazard chemical linked to cancer and other health issues. This ingredient is among the many harmful chemicals we prohibit in Green Seal-certified products to ensure products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet. 

Here, we’ll delve into what benzene is, how and where it’s used, and how to reduce your exposure to this harmful chemical. 

What is Benzene? 

Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor, known chemically as C₆H₆. It is a natural component of crude oil and gasoline and serves as a building block for several chemicals that are used in the manufacturing of products like plastics, pesticides, and detergents.  

Linear alkyl benzene (LAB) is a notable chemical derivative of benzene that primarily is used in the production of surfactants for detergents. Linear alkyl benzene is a safer chemical and is prevalent in consumer products.  

Benzene in Consumer Products 

Benzene is used as a solvent in the production of rubber, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. It is also part of the manufacturing process for plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester. 

Benzene can be found as an ingredient in household products including some adhesives, cleaning agents, paints, and paint strippers.  

Although it is not used as an ingredient in personal care and beauty products, benzene was the cause of recent high-profile recalls of popular sunscreens, deodorants, and dry shampoos. The products were contaminated with benzene, which was believed to be related to the butane-powered propellants in the products’ aerosol cans.  

The Health Risks of Benzene 

Despite its widespread use, benzene is associated with well-documented health risks. Benzene is a carcinogen as designated by governmental bodies including the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Long-term exposure to benzene is linked to an increased risk of leukemia and other blood disorders. Short-term exposure to high levels of benzene can cause dizziness, headaches, tremors, and unconsciousness. 

Most benzene exposure occurs indoors, because this is where people spend most of their time. The primary indoor sources of benzene are car exhaust from attached garages, cigarette smoke, stored fuels, and paint supplies. VOCs from outside also enter the indoor air in commercial buildings through the outdoor air intakes in HVAC systems. 

Regulatory agencies have established strict guidelines to limit benzene exposure in the workplace and the environment. However, benzene still contaminates ambient air, particularly in urban areas with high levels of vehicle emissions and industrial activity.  

Minimizing Your Exposure 

Being aware of the products you use and the places you spend time can help reduce your exposure to benzene: 

• Avoid spending extended periods of time near gas stations or industrial facilities 

• Eliminate cigarette smoke in your home 

• Don’t use gas-powered equipment or leave cars idling in your attached garage 

• Ventilate your home when painting 

To be confident your paints and other household products don’t contain benzene, look for reputable ecolabels like Green Seal. We prohibit harmful chemicals and screen VOC levels to ensure certified products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet. 

Sanitary paper products, including toilet paper, towels, and facial tissue, are daily essentials. The U.S. consumes approximately 19.2 billion pounds of them annually – roughly 56 pounds per person. But as single-use products made from virgin tree fiber, they can carry a hefty environmental footprint.  

That’s why we’re proposing a leadership standard for sanitary paper products that contain no virgin tree fiber and meet meaningful manufacturing and packaging sustainability requirements.   

Green Seal has long recognized manufacturing leaders that use 100% recycled fiber. Now, we’re adding a certification pathway for tree-free products like those made from bamboo. This will expand opportunities for brands that produce responsibly sourced alternative-fiber sanitary paper to verify their sustainability leadership and give consumers more certified choices in this product category.  

A High-Impact Product Category 

The fiber composition of sanitary paper products has a significant impact on their overall environmental footprint.  

Making these products with virgin tree fiber heavily contributes to deforestation, denuding 28 million acres of the ecologically valuable Boreal forest in a 20-year period – an area roughly the size of Ohio. 

Converting virgin wood into pulp is an extremely energy-intensive process. Papermaking is the third-largest energy consuming manufacturing sector, after chemicals and petroleum and coal products. In fact, products made from virgin tree fiber can generate three times as many CO₂ emissions as products made from other types of pulp. Making paper from virgin tree fiber also guzzles massive amounts of water, demanding more than 24 billion gallons a day.  

Reducing the Impacts of an Everyday Product 

Using recycled or alternative fiber significantly reduces the carbon and water impacts of producing sanitary paper products and eliminates their impact on deforestation.  

By meeting stringent fiber sourcing and manufacturing criteria, Green Seal-certified sanitary paper products save an average of 30.5 billion gallons of water and 11.7 million metric tons of CO2 emissions a year – the equivalent of taking 2.8 million cars off the road.  

Under our new standard, Green Seal will: 

• Verify products use no virgin tree fiber 

• Validate significant savings in carbon pollution and water use 

• Confirm a product is made without fragrances, PFAS, or any other harmful chemicals 

Buyers trust Green Seal-certified sanitary paper products because they significantly reduce carbon emissions, protect ancient and endangered forests, and preserve water resources. Our new standard maintains this leadership bar while growing market impact by inviting a broader group of manufacturers to verify their sustainability achievement. 

Lend us your voice 

We believe a collaborative approach leads to better outcomes for everyone. We developed our draft standard in collaboration with the leading towel and tissue brands, purchasers and policy advocates in our Working Group to promote industry alignment on meaningful claims and criteria for this product category.  

We want to hear from you too. We are accepting public comment on our proposed criteria for sanitary paper products through April 28, 2025. 

Learn more and submit your comment here. 

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of approximately 14,000 synthetic chemicals that have attracted significant attention due to their persistence in the environment and their impacts on human health. These chemicals are commonly used for their water and grease resistance, making them prevalent in a wide range of consumer products. 

While only a handful of PFAS are formally classified as hazardous, a growing body of evidence indicates that all PFAS are likely to have harmful health and environmental effects. Since so many chemicals are included in this class and their uses are so widespread, tracking down all the products containing PFAS proves challenging for consumers and manufacturers alike. For example, PFAS are often used in raw materials – and those proprietary ingredient formulas are often not fully disclosed to the final product manufacturer.

At Green Seal, we are committed to eliminating PFAS from the supply chain for consumer products. We are among the first eco-certifiers to enact an aggressive ingredient prohibition that addresses PFAS as an entire chemical class. This means that both manufacturers and consumers can be confident that Green Seal-certified products are formulated without PFAS.

Here, we’ll dive into the uses and impacts of PFAS, as well as tips for avoiding PFAS in household products. 

Defining PFAS 

PFAS are a large family of man-made chemicals characterized by their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. This bond is one of the strongest in organic chemistry, making PFAS extremely resistant to breakdown in the environment and the human body. This persistence is why they are termed “forever chemicals.”

These substances have been in use since the 1940s, primarily in industrial applications. Over time, their unique properties have led to their incorporation into a wide variety of consumer products. However, the stability and resistance to degradation that make PFAS useful also contribute to their potential for long-term environmental and health effects. 

How PFAS Are Used in Consumer Products 

PFAS are used in myriad consumer products because of their ability to repel water, oil, and grease. In the kitchen, they are notoriously found in non-stick cookware, where they provide a smooth, non-stick surface that simplifies cooking and cleaning. 

Beyond the kitchen, PFAS are used in waterproof clothing and outdoor gear to enhance their resistance to moisture. They’re also integral to producing stain-resistant treatments for carpets and upholstery, providing a protective barrier that prevents stains from penetrating fabric fibers. Their common applications don’t stop there: Today, PFAS are found in everything from food packaging such as microwave popcorn bags and fast-food wrappers, to paints, coatings, cosmetics, and even some cleaning products. 

Examples of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances 

There are thousands of different PFAS, but some of the most notable examples include perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). PFOA was widely used in non-stick cookware production, while PFOS was a key ingredient in fabric protectors. Both PFOA and PFOS have largely been phased out of manufacturing in the U.S. due to their known health and environmental effects, but in many cases, manufacturers have replaced these chemicals with other, lesser-studied PFAS.

Another significant example is GenX, which was developed as a replacement for PFOA in the production of non-stick coatings. Despite being marketed as a safer alternative, a chemical toxicity assessment by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found GenX is even more toxic than PFOA.

Other examples of PFAS include perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), which are used in various industrial applications and consumer products.

The Problem with PFAS 

PFAS are persistent in the environment, with evidence that some chemicals are so resistant to degradation that they could persist for hundreds of years. They are now found in drinking water and bioaccumulate in both soil and humans, with some chemicals taking more than eight years to reach their half-life — or reduce their concentration by 50 percent in the human body. 

Exposure to PFAS is linked with numerous adverse health effects, including impacts on the endocrine system; liver damage; thyroid disease; decreased fertility; an increased risk of certain cancers such as prostate, testicular, and kidney; and decreased immune responses — including our body’s ability to develop beneficial antibodies in response to vaccines. 

Regulatory agencies, including the EPA, have established advisory levels for some individual PFAS in drinking water and are working toward more stringent regulations. In addition, several states have begun enacting legislation to prohibit the use of PFAS in certain consumer products. Despite these efforts, PFAS chemicals continue to be widespread in the environment and in many consumer products. Their persistence in the environment further complicates efforts to mitigate the impact of PFAS. 

Avoiding PFAS 

Reducing your exposure to PFAS involves making informed choices about the products you use, but avoiding it entirely is unlikely. To lower your risk for exposure:

• Opt for alternatives to non-stick cookware, such as stainless steel or cast iron. 
• Choose water-resistant clothing and outdoor gear that do not use intentionally added PFAS or chose brands and retailers that have committed to banning PFAS as a company policy.
• Choose carpets, furniture, and rugs without stain-resistant treatments. 
• Be cautious with food packaging, including fast food packaging and microwave popcorn. 
• Consider using a drinking water filter that is certified to reduce PFAS levels. 
• Buy Green Seal-certified products when possible (you can shop for household products here). 

Staying informed and making conscious decisions can help you reduce your exposure to PFAS, contributing to a healthier lifestyle and environment. Supporting companies that prioritize safer alternatives and advocating for stronger regulations that eliminate all PFAS from the supply chain can also help drive broader changes and lead to a healthier future for you and your family.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a versatile and widely used compound found in everything from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics. This petroleum-derived chemical acts as a solvent and is often used to enhance product performance.

PEG is generally considered a safer ingredient, but it can be contaminated with toxic impurities.

Here, we’ll discuss what polyethylene glycol is, where it’s commonly found, and whether you should be concerned when you see this ingredient on product labels.

Polyethylene Glycol in Consumer Products

PEG is a polyether compound derived from petroleum. PEG can be a liquid, semi-solid, or solid depending on its molecular weight — making it highly adaptable and useful for formulators. PEG also is known for its water-solubility, low toxicity, and minimal reactivity, and widely used to enhance product stability, texture, and efficacy.

You might find PEG-400 on product labels for personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and food items, or PEG-8000 on cosmetics and cleaning products. The numbers following PEG indicate the ingredient’s average molecular weight — PEG-400 is a liquid, while PEG-8000 is a solid.

In personal care, you may find polyethylene glycol in shampoo, creams, lotions, or toothpaste, where it serves as a humectant, emollient, and thickening agent. In these applications, PEG helps retain moisture, improve texture, and stabilize formulations.

Polyethylene Glycol: Is It Safe?

Polyethylene glycol itself is not typically associated with significant health risks. However, because of the manufacturing process used to produce it, PEG can contain carcinogenic contaminants such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. These contaminants also may cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions for people with sensitivities or allergies.

To be confident that a product containing PEG is free from harmful levels of contaminants, look for reputable ecolabels like Green Seal. We screen all chemicals in a product, including contaminants, to ensure certified products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet.

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“Fragrance” is a common ingredient on consumer product labels that indicates the product is scented. Although it’s often noted as a single ingredient, “fragrance” is actually an umbrella term for a combination of chemicals that produces a desired aroma.

Understanding the nature of the chemicals in fragrances, their uses, and potential safety concerns can help you make informed choices about the products you bring into your home.

Here, we’ll explore the composition of fragrances, their applications, safety considerations, and ways to minimize your exposure.

Fragrance Ingredients and Safety

The term “fragrance” on ingredient labels is a catch-all for a mixture of chemicals designed to give products a specific scent. These mixtures can contain anywhere from a few to several hundred individual chemicals. Because the formulas can be considered trade secrets, companies often are not required to publicly disclose the specific chemicals used in their fragrances.

Green Seal reviews every chemical used in a product’s formula, including the chemicals used in fragrances, to ensure certified products meet a high standard for protecting people and the planet.

Fragrance ingredients commonly include synthetic chemicals that provide a distinctive aroma and that stabilize and prolong scents. Here are some common chemicals used in fragrances, and their associated health impacts. None of these are permitted in Green Seal Certified products:

• Phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate (DEP), are often used to help scents last longer. They are associated with endocrine disruption and other health issues
• Synthetic musks, like galaxolide and tonalide, provide products with a long-lasting scent. They are endocrine disruptors, which can affect human development, growth and metabolism
• Aldehydes are commonly used to produce fruity scents, but some, like Acetaldehyde, are known carcinogens
• Styrene is used to make fragrances last longer. It is a carcinogen, reproductive toxin, neurotoxin, and asthmagen

Fragrance blends may contain natural ingredients like essential oils, though these are often mixed with synthetic chemicals to enhance or stabilize the scent. Even on their own, many essential oils can be skin sensitizers that cause uncomfortable allergic reactions.

Overall, the complexity and lack of transparency around fragrance ingredients can pose a risk to consumers with chemical sensitivities by triggering symptoms such as headaches, respiratory issues, and skin irritation.

Where You’re Likely to Find Fragrance in Products

Fragrances are used across a wide range of consumer products. In personal care items, you can find fragrances in perfumes, colognes, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and deodorants, to name a few. These scents are designed to provide a pleasant sensory experience and are a significant factor in the appeal of these products.

Fragrances also are prevalent in household products including cleaners, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and air fresheners. Even products like trash bags and diapers can contain added fragrances to mask odors.

The pervasive use of fragrances in everyday items means that exposure to these chemicals is almost unavoidable.

How to Avoid Harmful Fragrance Chemicals

It is difficult to avoid fragrance altogether, but you can minimize your exposure to harmful fragrance chemicals by taking the following steps:

• Buy products from brands that prioritize transparency and disclose their fragrance ingredients.
• Look for Green Seal Certified products, which are formulated with safer ingredients.
• Look closely at “fragrance-free” marketing claims, as these claims are not regulated. Some of these products may contain essential oils or other fragrance ingredients.
• Be wary of items labeled as “unscented,” as they may still contain masking agents that neutralize odors without imparting a noticeable scent.