LACKAWANNA COUNTY- A lot of companies claim to be 'green,' but things aren't always as they seem. Most people in the environmental community are pleased with the national trend to 'go green.' But some warn us to watch out for "greenwashing."

Conservationist Bernie McGurl of the Lackawanna River Corridor Association explains, “It is a person or product that professes to be green. and some of them are. Some of them are very green. but others might be light green. Others might be blue and black and they want to be green and they're telling you that they're green."

David byman of the Sierra Club says consumers should do a little research. "Follow the money!  Where are these companies really putting their money? And that will give you the answer. I mean, of course you may have to go through several sources for that," he said.

Byman suggests checking websites that track corporate "green efforts." Before you do business with a company that claims to be green you might want to pay a visit.

See for yourself. A lot of "green efforts" are pretty easy to spot. Check to see if the company is making efficient use of natural light. Does it use recycled materials for things like carpeting? Does it conserve water in its restrooms?  Are there  recycling containers for the public and employees?

Conservationists say green policies save resources and money. The Sierra Club and the Audubon Society have web sites that feature environmental tracking.