If only organic meant something… the hard truth is that in the dry cleaning industry, the term organic is meaningless as a safeguard for human health and habitat. Substances like perc and hydrocarbons fit the definition of organic in chemistry, being carbon based, but not in consumer protection. Food companies must meet strict standards to label their products as organic but the FDA does not regulate garment care.
If you see “eco”, “natural” or “organic” or “Certified Greener Cleaner” in the drycleaner window the chances are that what they are really selling you is premium rate green washing. Demonstrated by one of the industries largest lobbying group the NCA (National Cleaners Assoc) who started up Green Cleaners Council – where applicants fill out a form to get a “leaf” rating. With no physical certification conducted or explanation to the consumer of the difference between one leaf and 5 leaves, the consumer education initiated by the NCA is little more than professional green washing. Oh, did we mention that the members of NCA are predominantly perc and petroleum cleaners.
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