Design for the Environment, also referred to as DfE, is a program sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency serving to identify environmentally friendly chemicals and cleaning practices. Products endorsed by DfE have been thoroughly tested to ensure they meet the strict criteria required to minimize pollution and promote environmental health. Products are approved only when each ingredient has been studied by qualified scientists and found to pose minimal concern. In addition, they may not contain chemicals which may irritate the skin or potentially harm children or pets.

Products endorsed by Design for the Environment display the DfE label, making then easily identifiable by consumers. Manufacturers who have been approved participate extensively in research and development to create effective cleaning agents which combine quality performance with the least possible environmental impact. Since 1992, more than 2000 products have been permitted to carry the DfE logo. Additionally, Design for the Environment’s Alternatives Assessments Program allows businesses to compare potential environmental effects among the products they use, permitting them to select the safest. If safer chemicals are not an option, the Best Practices Program teaches industries and their workers how to minimize exposure time to protect their health.

Since the early 1990s, Design for the Environment has partnered with industries and academic institutions to reduce pollution and ensure a greener future. An extensive list of cleaning products sponsored by DfE may be viewed at epa.gov/dfe.