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What is the Global Organic Textile Standard?

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is one of the foremost textile processing standards for o...

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The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is one of the foremost textile processing standards for organic fibers and textiles, from the harvesting of raw materials to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to the final labeling. According to the document from JHT Homewares, a Chinese textile manufacturer, textiles can have significant environmental impacts. Issues like greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution from dyes and chemicals, and textile waste ending up in landfills are major problems. This standard was developed by leading standard-setting organizations to provide credible assurance to end consumers while promoting the growth of organic textiles worldwide.

GOTS includes stringent criteria for every stage of the textile supply chain, such as the prohibition of toxic and harmful chemicals, implementation of water treatment plants, and adherence to social criteria regarding workers' rights and fair wages. For a company like JHT Homewares, obtaining GOTS certification enables them to produce textiles sustainably while reassuring buyers that their products meet top social and environmental standards. As JHT states, collaborating across the industry is key to building a responsible supply chain and protecting the planet for the future. The adoption of standards like GOTS is an important step on this journey.

Overview of Global Organic Textile Standard

 

Definition

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a leading international standard for processing textiles made from organic fibers. The standard includes ecological and social criteria, aiming to provide a comprehensive set of guidelines for every stage of the textile supply chain, ranging from harvesting to manufacturing and labeling.

Purpose

GOTS' primary goal is to ensure the organic status of textiles and assure consumers of an ethically produced and environmentally friendly product. The standard facilitates responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices by encompassing the following points:

● Ecological Criteria: GOTS promotes the use of organic raw materials and limits the application of harmful chemicals during production.
● Social Criteria: The standard ensures fair labor conditions and compliance with key international labor rights.
● Certification: GOTS requires independent certification of the entire textile supply chain, ensuring transparency and credibility.

History

Developed by leading standard-setters in the textile industry, the GOTS was established to create a globally recognized set of requirements for organic textiles. It aimed to harmonize various international standards into one and provide clear guidance for manufacturers and consumers in a rapidly growing market.

Since its inception, the GOTS has undergone several revisions, with the latest version (Version 6.0) released in March 2020. These revisions have allowed the standard to adapt and remain relevant in the ever-changing landscape of the textile industry.

Certification Process

 

Criteria

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has a comprehensive set of criteria for certifying textiles. The criteria cover the entire supply chain, from the harvesting of raw materials to the final labeling of the products. Environmental and socially responsible manufacturing practices are also included in the criteria. The GOTS ensures that textiles certified under this standard provide credible assurance to the consumers regarding their organic nature.

Steps

1. Application: Textile processing, manufacturing, and trading entities can apply for GOTS certification.

2. Preparation: The applicant must ensure that their operation complies with the GOTS criteria and must be able to provide evidence of compliance.

3. Inspection: Upon application, an independent certification body will conduct a thorough inspection to verify that the applicant's product and operations meet the GOTS standards.

4. Certification: If the certification body finds that the applicant meets all GOTS requirements, it will issue a formal GOTS certification, which attests to the product's compliance with the standard.

GOTS Labeling

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a globally recognized standard for organic textiles, ensuring their organic status from raw materials to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing and labeling. In this section, we will discuss the labeling aspect of GOTS certification, focusing on label categories and labeling requirements.

Label Categories

1. GOTS Goods: Products that meet the standard can use the GOTS Goods label, which provides a clear identification of compliant products for consumers and guarantees their organic and sustainable production.

2. Off-Product Logo Use: The GOTS logo represents the Global Organic Textile Standard itself, and can be used in an appropriate and unambiguous context for informative and advertising purposes.

Labeling Requirements

GOTS labeling requirements aim to provide a credible assurance to the end consumer. To comply with the standard, manufacturers must adhere to the following requirements:

● Use of the term 'organic': Only products containing at least 95% certified organic fibers are allowed to use the term 'organic' on their label.

● Composition statement: Labels must indicate the percentage of certified organic fibers and other fibers present in the product.

● Certification reference: Manufacturers must include a reference to the GOTS-approved certification body that has granted the certification, ensuring transparency and traceability.

● License number: All approved products must display the unique GOTS license number, which helps track the product back to its origin.

Environmental Impact

 

Sustainable Practices

Adopting sustainable practices is a primary goal of the Global Organic Textile Standard. Textiles produced under this standard must adhere to strict criteria, such as using a minimum of 70% organic natural fibers, limiting water consumption, and minimizing waste generation during all stages of production. These requirements contribute to a more environmentally friendly production process, reducing the textile industry's overall impact on the planet.

Chemical Restrictions

GOTS certification also enforces strict chemical restrictions that aim to reduce harmful substances in textiles. Chemical inputs during manufacturing must meet high standards of biodegradability and toxicological safety and adhere to a comprehensive list of prohibited substances.

Global Acceptance and Recognition

 

Adoption by Countries

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is recognized and adopted by numerous countries worldwide. This comprehensive standard covers environmental, social, and quality criteria for organic textile production. Developed by a collaboration of international standard setters, GOTS serves as a benchmark for textiles made from organic fibers.

In North America, GOTS certification is supported by the Organic Trade Association, ensuring organic integrity in the textile supply chain. European countries, such as Germany and the United Kingdom, also widely implement GOTS. The growing popularity of organic textiles has encouraged even more countries to adopt the standard, contributing to its global acceptance.

Industry Perception

Within the textile and fashion industries, the Global Organic Textile Standard is regarded as the premier certification for organic textiles. By ensuring eco-friendly and socially responsible practices, GOTS enhances the credibility and reputation of companies engaging in organic textile production.

● Environmental Benefits: GOTS certification ensures the sustainable use of resources, minimizes water and energy consumption, and restricts the use of harmful chemicals throughout the production process.

● Social Criteria: Apart from environmental standards, GOTS certification demands ethical employment practices, fair working conditions, and compliance with wage regulations.

Future Prospects

Innovation in Standards

The future of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) involves continuous innovation to set comprehensive rules for eco-friendly and socially responsible textile production. One aspect is the expansion of coverage to include more diverse product categories, such as home textiles and personal care products. GOTS is also expected to keep up with advancements in textile technology and incorporate new techniques and materials that support environmental and social sustainability.

Another area of innovation may involve the integration of digital technologies, such as blockchain or AI-powered supply chain management systems. These could help ensure the organic status of textiles while enhancing traceability, transparency, and accountability in the supply chain.

Expansion and Growth

GOTS will likely continue its expansion and growth, both geographically and in terms of the number of certified entities. Currently, the standard is already recognized globally, providing a credible assurance to consumers. Its growth will further solidify its position as the world's leading processing standard for textiles made from organically produced raw materials.

Potential areas of growth could include collaborations with other sustainability-oriented organizations and networks, making it easier for businesses to adhere to multiple standards while simultaneously raising the bar for responsible textile production. This will benefit not only the environment and the communities involved but also consumers, who increasingly demand socially and environmentally responsible products.

The prospects of the Global Organic Textile Standard depict constant innovation, adaptation, and expansion that will contribute to shaping a more sustainable and responsible textile industry.

Contact JHThome today and get samples for your business venture.

Elsa Zhang

With over 5 years of experience in the international sales of home textile products, I have honed my skills in understanding global market trends and developing strong relationships with clients across the world.
- Nearly 7 years experience in the marketing of home textile and homewares industry has equipped me with a deep understanding of customers’ preferences and the ability to create impactful marketing strategies that drive sales and brand awareness.

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