This is not an easy answer. The manner in which a product, material or piece of equipment is designed, constructed and used determines if it contributes to the sustainability of how and where we live, work and play. Below is a summary of the criteria used by the folks at BuildingGreen.com The entire article can be downloaded here: What Makes a Product Green?

1. Products made with salvaged, recycled or agricultural waste content.

The materials used to produce a product – and where those materials come from – is a key determinant of green.

• Salvaged products
• Products with post-consumer recycled content
• Products with pre-consumer recycled content
• Products make from agricultural waste material.

2. Products that conserve natural resources.

These products use less material, are especially durable and don’t need replacement as often or are made from rapidly renewable resources.

• Products that reduce material use
• Products with exceptional durability or low maintenance requirements
• Certified wood products
• Rapidly renewable products

3. Products that avoid toxic or other emissions.

These products are “less bad” compared to their competitor products or they avoid substances that deplete stratospheric ozone and those associated with ecological or health hazards including mercury and halogenated compounds.

• Natural or minimally processed products
• Alternatives to ozone-depleting substances
• Alternatives to hazardous products
• Products that reduce or eliminate pesticide treatments
• Products that reduce stormwater pollution
• Products that reduce impacts from construction or demolition activities
• Products that reduce pollution or waste from operations

4. Products that save energy or water

Reducing the amount of water used by a product, piece of equipment or building can significantly reduce its environmental impact.

• Building components that reduce heating and cooling loads
• Equipment that conserves energy and manages loads.
• Renewable energy and fuel cell equipment
• Fixtures and equipment that conserve water

5. Products that contribute to a safe, healthy built environment

Indoor environmental quality is determined by the products used in in construction and finishing.

• Products that do not release significant pollutants into the building
• Products that block the introduction, development or spread of indoor contaminants
• Products that remove indoor pollutants
• Products that warn occupants of health hazards in the building
• Products that improve light quality
• Products that help control noise