Written by Lauren Bell | 03 June 2010

It’s fitting that on the heels of tax season we talk about being audited. No, not by the IRS, an Eco-Audit! It is time to realize that the future of business is in a green economy. Consumers across the nation are becoming more empowered and knowledgeable about green businesses and products. In this new market, we, the people, have the POWER to vote with our dollars everyday to shape the economy.
Of course, there will always be someone looking to profit from the new Green Marketplace. Greenwashing is the practice of making an unsubstantiated or misleading claim about the environmental benefits of a product, service, technology, or company practice. For instance, a company may dilute with water and re-introduce in pretty packaging an old product, calling it a new “Natural” product. Consumers could pay more hard-earned money for a less effective product that is still environmentally toxic and dangerous to your health.
To ensure their dollars are purchasing a truly environmentally safe product consumers are forced to do additional research. That is why there is a need to establish an Eco-Standard.  In the meantime, while those standards are being set, Eco-auditors are available to help business, government and homeowners to get a real assessment of what they can do to earn certification as authentically green.  Doing a self-evaluation there is a chance of missing some of the greatest rewards of going green.
What does a third party auditor do?
A genuine Green Consultant/Auditor goes through continuous training to learn new technologies of sustainability and how to apply them in cost effective and efficient strategies.
An auditor uses guidelines set by laws and organizations like the EPA to reduce carbon footprints, chemical exposure and unethical cheating.
An auditor recommends the best money-saving strategies that compliment your budget and your level of eco-enthusiasm and commends you for the green efforts you are already making.
An Auditor researches historical methods used by many cultures worldwide. 
The job of an Eco-Auditor is to find hidden savings and increase efficiency. A professional who is dedicated to staying current with the rapidly changing age will continuously search for new information. The integration between historically used methods and new age technologies is a good choice of professional to have working for you.
The Process
Activities or products you use are given pre-assigned points. The auditor then compiles a report called a Sustainability Plan which outlines recommendations for next step savings, rebates you may qualify for and options for future purchases. After the assessment, the consultant in your area helps you through the greening process, assisting you with product comparisons, system upgrades and special discounts with preferred businesses. As a member network, you enjoy ongoing access to a broad spectrum of new technologies and promotional opportunities. You may be nominated for further state and local awards. Consider the rewards of Authentic Green Certification today and get an Eco-Audit!
Lauren Bell is a Green Consultant and the founder of GLOBellConsulting.com. Through auditing, she helps people save money and resources by transitioning to greener lifestyles and occupations.