The GOTS "Global Organic Textile Standard" label has existed since 2006 in the industrial and commercial sectors. It is recognized as a global benchmark. It is the most comprehensive certification for organic textiles.
He ensures
The quality of organic textiles from harvesting raw materials to labeling, to offer a reliable guarantee to consumers.
Eco-responsible manufacturing
Production stages that respect and improve the social conditions of workers.
All GOTS certified products offer a guarantee of responsible textile production from a health, environmental and social point of view.
What does the GOTS label certify?
Health: The GOTS label certifies that cotton, linen, and hemp are grown without insecticides, pesticides, or GMOs. It guarantees the absence of allergenic, carcinogenic, or health-hazardous substances.
Ecology: Organic cotton uses 50% less water than conventional cotton throughout the production chain. Eco-friendly dyeing, without bleaching using heavy metals such as lead or chromium, which are a significant source of pollution for the planet.
Social: The GOTS label guarantees decent working conditions and wages for farmers and employees by promoting fair trade.
Rules to follow
Environmental rules
Only textile products containing at least 70% certified organic fibres can be GOTS certified. They must be assessed and comply with a certain number of rules regarding toxicity and biodegradability.
Social rules
Textile processors and manufacturers must comply with the social criteria set out in the International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. This includes a decent wage, proper working hours, and a strict prohibition of child labour.
Toxicity and Biodegradability Rules
All chemical materials must meet a certain number of environmental and toxicological criteria. Inputs such as aromatic or halogenated solvents, chlorophenol, detergents, formaldehyde, fungicides or biocides, functional nanoparticles, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their enzymes are categorically prohibited. Heavy metals and azo dyes that release carcinogenic amine compounds are prohibited. Printing methods using aromatic solvents and plastisol printing methods using phthalates and PVC are prohibited. Bleaching agents must be oxygen-based and not chlorine-based. PVC, nickel and chrome are prohibited. Since 2014, all polyesters must be recyclable. In terms of biodegradability, all supply chain actors must follow an environmental policy including objectives and procedures to minimize waste and discharges. Materials used for packaging must never contain PVC. All paper and cardboard used in packaging or labels must be recyclable or FSC or PEFC certified.
Natural and organic fiber
What is a natural fiber?
A natural fiber is made from materials derived from nature: cotton, linen, hemp, wool, etc. A natural fiber is not necessarily an organic fiber, as it can undergo chemical treatments during the manufacturing process.
What is an organic fiber?
Organic fibers are always made from natural fibers. They are grown without insecticides, pesticides, or GMOs. Instead, compost or manure are used as organic fertilizers.
