LETTERS

To the editor:

I am writing to express our dismay with the editorial "Green
Sale" in the October 1991 issue.

You have summarily dismissed the work of the Green Cross
Certification Company without inquiring as to whether the
assertions made about our program in a recent report were
accurate. In fact, that report was highly inaccurate, as has
been confirmed by outside sources.

In contrast to the criticisms you cited in your editorial, Green
Cross applies its standards consistently, has taken extensive
measures to solicit outside input on its certification criteria,
and maintains well-defined relationships with retailers. For
more information, readers can call or write Green Cross at 1611
Telegraph Avenue, # 1111, Oakland, CA 94612; phone is 510-
432-1415.

We have been on the front lines of a very difficult battle--the
battle for accountability of environmental claims. Contrary to
the implication of your editorial, we have been gratified that
the many environmental groups who have taken the time to examine
our program in detail have been so positive and supportive.

We agree with your statement that a neutral third party
certification organization must be just that--neutral. Any
organization with a real or perceived agenda runs the risk of
having compromised standards when it comes to scientific review
of data. From the very beginning, the Green Cross program has
been organized to walk this difficult, but necessary, line
between environmental organizations and the business community.

Founded by a PhD chemist, Green Cross is an organization firmly
grounded in the necessity of scientific methodology in the
evaluation of claims. We have assembled a team of scientists and
experts in fields ranging from chemistry, engineering, product
and packaging design, biology, toxicology, nutrition and
agricultural sciences.

Unlike Green Seal, Green Cross is not set up like an
environmental organization with an outside Board of Directors
consisting of individuals from environmental and business
groups. Membership on our Board of Directors is restricted to
employees of the company. Moreover, Green Cross is owned in its
entirety by the founders and employees. We feel this arrangement
is the one most consistent with our mission to provide rigorous,
independent evaluation of claims.

Linda Brown
Vice President, Communications
Green Cross Certification Co.
Oakland, California
 

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