Everything you need to know about GOTS certification
GOTS stands for “Global Organic Textile Standard,” an impartial certification of the entire fashion supply chain. Those concerned about environmental impact should pay attention to the GOTS label.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) was developed to fill the demand for a globally accepted standard that applies to all organic fibers, not just cotton, silk, wool, and bamboo. However, leather goods are not included. Creating high-quality, a long-lasting textile without negatively impacting the natural environment is the goal of the standard.
GOTS certification ensures a safe production process with little chemical use. In the long run, this assures consumers access to high-quality organic textiles. The entire process of creating, transporting, selling, and distributing materials is certified as environmentally friendly, thanks to the GOTS label. GOTS products must meet several environmental and social standards to receive the seal of approval.
Factors Essential for GOTS Accreditation
Synthetic Fibers and Other Chemicals
Textiles must have at least 70% organic fibers (such as cotton) that carry the manufactured with organic’ designation to get GOTS certification. A minimum of 95% organic fibers are used to earn the “Organic” label.
Also, no hazardous substances that can hurt you or the environment are allowed to be utilized in the production of the garments. You will likely be exposed to various pollutants, including heavy metals and poly fluorinated compounds (PFCs). Thankfully, GOTS mandates that only non-toxic, you can use biodegradable chemicals in the production of garments.
Putting Things Away
The entire process, from harvesting to shipping, is guaranteed eco-friendly, thanks to GOTS certification. Consequently, only packaging certified as being from sustainably managed forests or constructed from post-consumer recycled materials will be accepted. Companies must guarantee that no conventional items have contaminated their supply chain, including during shipping and storage. Companies have moved to paper packaging to lessen our environmental impact by using less plastic. While recycling is helpful, we’d instead not use it if we can help.
Standards of Society
GOTS is excellent since it considers the social impact of the garment industry. That means there will be zero tolerance for discrimination or the use of child labor. Every GOTS-approved business must be a moral enterprise that respects its employees’ fundamental human rights and ensures their free will to work. Workers must be paid fairly, have a safe workplace, and have limited working hours.
Verification and Record-Keeping
The certification is more trustworthy because all GOTS-certified apparel manufacturers must record their textile production process. Furthermore, third-party labs must conduct tests for potentially dangerous substances. After initial certification, independent recognized testing institutes continue to work on-site and other inspections.
Other Environmental Standards
Reducing waste output and maximizing energy and water efficiency are two more environmentally conscious goals. And before it can be released, they must clean water at wet finishing factories. Because of this, they can rest assured that the production of their garments does not lead to any water contamination. GOTS certification can be awarded to any product made from a natural fiber, whether it is yarn, clothing, or home textiles.