The Federal Trade Commission published the first edition of the Environmental Guide ("FTC Green Guides") long before green was the trend.  The Green Guides require that the manufacturer clearly state the environmental benefits and characteristics and how they are achieved.  Pictures and descriptive terms must be meaningful.  The FTC is currently in the process of being updated to stem greenwashing.

Other credible organizations such as the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the International Organization of Standards (ISO) have developed standards for products and materials to identify characteristics.   The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has several programs, such as Energy Star promoting sustainability.