This page explains how our product-type guides are put together and what their limits are.
What a product-type guide is
Our guides describe a type of product, such as glass food containers or bamboo-handled toothbrushes, rather than one specific item. The photos are representative of the product type. Links to Amazon open search results for that type so you can compare current options yourself.
What we look at
- Materials: what the product is typically made of, including lids, seals and other parts that are often plastic.
- Use: the situations where it works well, and where another option is better.
- Care and lifespan: how it is cleaned and what usually wears out first.
- End of life: whether it can commonly be reused, recycled or composted.
- Trade-offs: weight, breakability, cost and convenience compared with the disposable item it replaces.
What we do not do
We do not run laboratory tests, and we do not assign numerical scores. We have not tested individual products by hand unless a guide says so. Materials, sizes and certifications differ between sellers and change over time, so always check the details on the listing before you buy.
Estimates in our tools
Figures produced by the calculator and visualizer are simple, educational estimates based on the numbers you enter. They are not measured or certified environmental results.