While the notion of lower-impact shopping habits and Amazon may not go hand-in-hand for most consumers, we know from experience that the endless website is nothing if not full of surprises — and the latest hidden gem to emerge from the retailer’s homepage deserves a little more attention than that much-hyped pink stuff. Yesterday marked the launch of Amazon Aware, a massive multi-category shop containing a slew of “carbon-neutral” goods that boast certifications from third-party environmental agencies and industry watchdogs like OEKO-TEX, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), and the Global Recycled Standard. In addition to a selection of Amazon’s signature streamlined fashion essentials for men and women, the new storefront offers bedding, bath linens, beauty and skin care products, and even a group of cleaning products and paper goods. “We are excited to introduce Amazon Aware, as it’s another step that continues in our commitment to test, learn, and innovate, while offering low-priced, everyday essentials to our customers, all with third-party certifications featured in our Climate Pledge Friendly program,” Matt Taddy, Amazon’s vice president of private brands, shared in a press statement.
For anyone who’s not clear on the exact promise behind the carbon-neutral qualifier, Amazon Aware’s FAQ section provides an additional level of insight. According to the retailer, the carbon footprint of each product is calculated by ClimatePartner, an external certifier,” and “covers emissions from [a product’s]materials, production, distribution, and end-of-life.” Amazon has then “neutralized any remaining emissions through high-quality carbon credits.”
There’s no denying that the sprawling e-commerce marketplace is a daily destination for legions of consumers across the globe — and even if we all know that the best way to reduce our collective environmental impact is to buy less stuff, Amazon’s massive size and purchasing power means that any step towards sustainability is a noticeable one. “We are committed to creating programs that contribute toward a more sustainable future,” said Taddy. Through the easily navigable landing page, customers have the option to shop by organic or recycled materials for new additions to their home or wardrobe.
Ahead, we rounded up some of our favorites from the assortment; from a recycled-polyester sherpa shacket to a milky avocado-oil face cleanser that already has reviewers impressed.
Amazon Aware Apparel
Jersey Ruched Dress, $36.10
Amazon’s array of “aware” apparel is populated with easy, inoffensively-hued separates that recall the monochromatic, gender-neutral offerings of its buzzier fashion brethren. This assortment boasts a group of what the retailer is calling “perfect basics” — tees and tanks in Organic Content Standard-certified materials like organic cotton and modal — along with organic cotton loungewear, dresses made from renewable tencel, and denim blended with both recycled cotton and polyester. The inclusive size range extends from XXS to 7X (with denim clocking in from sizes 0 – 40).
Amazon Aware Bedding and Bath
100% Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set, $64.99
An harmonious blend of gray and blush pink round out Amazon Aware’s organic cotton bed and bath offerings, all of which are vetted by OEKO-TEX — the Zurich-based environmental group that tests for harmful substances in apparel and household goods. Each product boasts the agency’s Made in Green certification, indicating a reduced environmental impact and socially responsible manufacturing conditions.
Amazon Aware Beauty and Skin Care
Hydrating Face Cleanser With Avocado and Sandalwood Oils, $16.99
The retailer’s beauty efforts consist of a tightly edited skin care cluster, formulated with workhorse natural ingredients like vitamin C, avocado oil, and shea butter, along with extracts of arnica and calendula. In an effort to reduce the presence of single-use plastics, the pared-down packaging is fabricated primarily with aluminum and glass. (There are also plastic-free refill bottles available for purchase.) Amazon has ensured that the products are free of “chemicals of concern,” a list of potentially toxic ingredients classified by the Environmental Working Group.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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