Consumers can learn a lot from the labels on the product packaging, but there are some things that can't be found on the label, such as the environmental impact of the product. Recently, Giki launched a free mobile app to help consumers understand more about the products sold in supermarkets, which promotes sustainable consumption and reduce environmental impact.

Giki rated 250,000 products in three areas: “Sustainability,” “Health,” and “Fairness”. Each category has different badges, the total is 12 badges. The badges in the “sustainability” category are: Organic, Greener cosmetics, Kinder cleaning, Recyclable packaging, Responsibly sourced, Low carbon footprint, and Local manufacturing. The badges in the “health” category are: Free from additives, No chemicals of concern, and Healthier Option (low fat, low sugar, low salt). The badges in “fairness” are: Animal welfare and No animal testing.

Once the product meets the criteria in the above categories, it will receive the relevant badge on Giki. If the product does not meet the standard, there will be no badge for it. The badge system alerts consumers that the product may not be a good choice.

Consumers use Giki to scan the barcode of the product, and they will know how many badges are awarded. In addition, Giki will find the higher-rated products to let the consumers purchase more environmentally friendly, healthier and fairer products. It promotes sustainable consumption habits and reduces carbon emissions too.

Giki's co-founder, James and Jo Hand said: "Giki’s mission is to encourage sustainable consumption by inspiring people to make small, regular changes in their shopping which are good for them, better for the environment and fairer to others. Our vision is that all products and services become sustainable so really we want every product on the market to be awarded as many badges as possible"

Although there is no similar App in Hong Kong, everyone can refer to the above guidelines when choosing the products. Pay attention to carbon labels, choose local and organic products, it can be a good start for sustainable consumption.

Sources:

https://gikibadges.com/

https://www.mygreenpod.com/articles/a-sustainable-shopping-companion/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-5856719/Giki-ethical-app-reveals-healthy-swaps-make-buying-supermarket-groceries.html