Sustainability Certifications in the Textile Industry

 

Sustainability Certifications in the Textile Industry

These certifications ensure that textile products are produced ethically, safely, and with minimal environmental impact. They cover areas like raw material sourcing, chemical use, water and energy consumption, labor welfare, and product traceability.

1. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

• Focus: Organic fibers and sustainable processing.

• Covers: Environmental and social criteria from raw material to finished product.

• Example: Organic cotton garments, home textiles.

2. OEKO-TEX® Standard 100

• Focus: Human and ecological safety.

• Covers: Tests for harmful chemicals in textiles.

• Example: Ensures fabrics are safe for skin contact.

3. OEKO-TEX® STeP (Sustainable Textile & Leather Production)

• Focus: Sustainable manufacturing processes.

• Covers: Chemical management, environmental performance, and social responsibility.

4. Fair Trade Certified

• Focus: Fair wages, safe working conditions, and community development.

• Covers: Social and ethical aspects of production.

5. Bluesign®

• Focus: Chemical safety and resource efficiency.

• Covers: Eliminates harmful substances from the production process.

6. GRS (Global Recycled Standard)

• Focus: Recycled materials.

• Covers: Verifies recycled content, social, environmental, and chemical practices.

7. RCS (Recycled Claim Standard)

• Focus: Recycled content tracking.

• Covers: Chain of custody from recycling to final product.

8. BCI (Better Cotton Initiative)

• Focus: Sustainable cotton farming.

• Covers: Water efficiency, soil health, and worker welfare.

9. Higg Index

• Focus: Environmental and social impact measurement tool.

• Covers: Used by brands and manufacturers to assess sustainability performance.