What is the meaning of "environmentally friendly" in the context of products and services?

In the context of products and services, "environmentally friendly" refers to those that minimize energy use and avoid toxic materials. This definition encompasses various practices and characteristics aimed at reducing negative impacts on the environment. For instance, environmentally friendly products are designed to be sustainable throughout their lifecycle, including production, usage, and disposal.

By minimizing energy use, these products contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced dependency on non-renewable energy sources. Avoiding toxic materials is crucial as it helps ensure that the products do not harm the environment during production or end up causing pollution when they are discarded.

While products made from recycled materials are a step towards sustainability, the broader definition of environmentally friendly includes various other attributes, such as energy efficiency and safety for both human health and the planet. Thus, a product can be considered environmentally friendly even if it doesn't strictly consist of recycled materials. The focus is more about the overall impact and sustainability of the product rather than just the materials used.