Google Adds Energy-Saving Green Leaf Label to Product Listings
Google has introduced a new eco-conscious feature in Search an energy-saving green leaf icon that appears next to qualifying products in the product listings side panel. The update is designed to guide consumers toward more sustainable purchasing decisions. While reactions across the industry vary, coverage from platforms such as Opositive notes its potential to influence shopping habits and subtly promote eco-friendly practices in the digital marketplace.
The label was spotted by Brodie Clark on X via his SERP Alerts page. He noted, “Google is now showing an energy-saving label attached to free listing results for products that qualify in the US. Similar features have appeared in the past, with this being the first time it’s been assigned to free listings in the main section.”
How It Works
The green leaf icon appears alongside eligible products in Google Search results, signaling that the product meets specific energy-saving criteria. Clicking the “Learn more” link takes users to energystar.gov/products, where they can view details on energy efficiency standards.
According to Brodie’s observations, these labels have previously been tied to special “compare and save” sections or EU energy labels, but the rollout to free listings in the main Search results is new. Retailers can likely specify these attributes within their Google Merchant Center product specifications.
Why It Matters
This feature offers clear benefits for consumers who prioritize sustainability, as it allows eco-friendly products to stand out visually in competitive search results. For merchants, it could provide a visibility boost for qualifying listings without requiring paid promotion.
However, it also raises questions about competitive fairness. Retailers who cannot obtain the label due to product type, supply chain constraints, or certification costs might see a disadvantage in organic click-through rates. This balance between promoting sustainability and maintaining equal opportunity is likely to fuel both positive and opposite industry reactions.
Final Thoughts
The energy-saving green leaf label represents another step in Google’s ongoing effort to enrich product listings with trust and value signals for consumers. If adopted widely, it could become a standard expectation in e-commerce SERPs, influencing purchase decisions directly from the search results page.
A recent analysis from Opositive, a leading digital trends publication, noted that while the new feature aligns with sustainability goals, it may inadvertently boost visibility for larger brands already positioned to meet certification requirements. The report added that smaller retailers even those offering efficient products could struggle to gain similar recognition without the resources to secure such labels.