Every purchase we make is a chance to implement our values, but it’s not always easy to practice ethical consumption. The wide variety of eco-friendly labels and certifications can be confusing, and even seemingly well-intentioned corporate initiatives can be a result of greenwashing efforts. Thankfully, mobile apps can help by providing clear insights into brands’ environmental practices, reminders about sustainable consumption, and connections to local eco-friendly initiatives.

Here are a few sustainability-minded apps that we recommend:

• Ecolabel Guide: Ever seen a symbol on a package and wondered what it actually means? The Ecolabel Guide app helps demystify the various labels found on product packaging. Just scan or search the label, and the app will provide a plain-language explanation of what it means, along with information about other related labels.
• Impact Score® Shopping: Impact Score® Shopping is similar to Ecolabel Guide, but specific to users in the UK. Users can scan a supermarket product’s barcode in the app to learn about its ethical and environmental impact, including information about emissions and supply chain transparency.
• Good On You: Good On You empowers their users to evaluate fashion brands based on their impact on people and the planet. The app uses a five-tier scale to rate each brand’s transparency, labor conditions, environmental impact, and more, helping you ensure your spending is aligned with your values.
• 30 Wears Challenge: The 30 Wears Challenge encourages users to track how often they wear each item of clothing that they own, with the ultimate goal of wearing each item at least 30 times. To support users in this effort, the app offers an intuitive tool to track wardrobe usage. Learn more about the environmental impact of the fashion industry here.
• Too Good To Go: Too Good To Go helps reduce food waste by connecting users with local businesses that have surplus food at the end of the day. Customers can purchase discounted food that would otherwise go to waste, saving money and saving food that may otherwise be sent to landfills. Learn more about how to reduce food waste at home here.

These tools can help you confirm the environmental commitments of brands you support, learn about new brands that may be more aligned with your values, track your habits, and fight food waste in your community. By leveraging these tools, you can make more positive choices to contribute to a greener tomorrow.