The Local Government Association (LGA) has called on the UK's leading supermarket chains to reveal how much packaging they create.

According to the organisation, retail chains such as Tesco and Sainsbury's need to be more open about the amount of packaging they are producing.

Margaret Eaton, chairman of the LGA, commented: "It is vital that consumers can make informed choices about where they shop and which products they buy."

Personally, I think the only way you can be absolutely sure that you are buying green products is to buy items from bona fide eco-friendly brands.

That's why when I'm buying cosmetics, I always opt for natural beauty products from environmentally aware companies, such as Weleda, Duchy Originals, Hedgerow Herbals and Avalon Organics.

But the LGA's aims are laudable and I appreciate their efforts to make the retail sector more environmentally responsible.