GOTS

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a standard recognised worldwide for textiles made from organic raw materials such as sheep's wool or cotton. This standard sets high-level environmental and social criteria for the entire supply chain, from the harvesting of raw materials, to environmentally and socially responsible processing, to labelling and distribution of products. An independent monitoring body regularly checks that the standards are being met. GOTS certification can only be granted to products that contain at least 70% organic fibres. All chemicals, such as dyes, must comply with certain environmental and toxicological rules.

The GOTS standard divides certification into two levels according to the amount of organic fibres used. "Organic" must contain a minimum of 95% certified organic fibers, while the remaining percentages can be attributed to conventional natural fibers or recycled cellulose fiber products. 'Made with x% organic' must have a minimum of 70% certified organic fibres and a maximum of 30% non-certified fibres, of which up to 10% may be synthetic fibres (or a maximum of 25% for socks, leggings and sportswear).

The following key criteria must be met in the processing and production of organic fibres. The production stages of organic fibres shall be separate from the production of conventional fibres and shall be clearly identifiable. The use of formaldehyde, toxic heavy metals, aromatic solvents, nanocrystals, GMOs and enzymes from GMOs, or azo dyes releasing carcinogenic amino compounds is prohibited. Only oxygen-based bleaching agents are allowed; chlorinated bleaching agents are unacceptable. Furthermore, the standard requires respect for social principles, including protection against discrimination, prohibition of child labour, maintenance of a safe and clean working environment, freedom of employment, living wage and acceptable working hours.