ZOOM ON GOTS // A solution for a greener textile industry!
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
The current state of the sector
Textiles are an integral part of our daily lives. However, the industry faces a number of environmental challenges, such as soil and water pollution linked to the chemicals used in garment dyeing, as well as a share of global greenhouse gas emissions (source ADEME). However, it is encouraging to see that innovative initiatives and effective solutions are transforming the sector. As textile professionals, we must seize the opportunity to contribute to these changes and promote more sustainable practices for a more environmentally-friendly future.
Do you know GOTS? The GOTS label (Global Organic Textile Standard) is an international standard that certifies organic textiles. Created in 2006, GOTS guarantees environmentally-friendly production practices and ethical working conditions. It is recognized worldwide as a benchmark for organic textiles.
What does it guarantee? GOTS certification covers several key aspects:
- Organic fibers: At least 70% of fibers must be organically grown. Products can be labeled "organic" (95% organic fibers) or "composed of organic fibers" (70% organic fibers).
- Hazardous products: prohibition of hazardous inputs such as toxic heavy metals, aromatic solvents, etc.
- Working conditions: respect and improvement of working conditions. Labor standards comply with ILO conventions.
- Environmental criteria: environmentally-friendly production and transformation processes.
GOTS provides solid, controlled guarantees!
As a certification body, Ecocert delivers certification with complete independence and impartiality.
GOTS key figures
In 2023, GOTS reached 10,000 certified operators worldwide! For Ecocert, GOTS represented :
- 1,700 customers audited every year
- A 15% increase in the number of customers in 1 year
- 2250 audits carried out per year
- Across 60 countries
Evolution of the standard In 2023, GOTS updated its standard and published version GOTS 7.0. One of the major changes has been the introduction of a duty of care for all operators, ahead of European directives and current regulations (France, Germany, etc.), with the aim of involving principals and brands more closely in their social and environmental responsibilities. The GOTS standard is updated every 3 years to take into account improvements in textile industry practices and consumer needs for guarantees.
Why choose Ecocert for GOTS certification? With over 2,000 textile customers worldwide, we are a major player in sustainable textile certification. With 15 years' experience in sustainable textiles and over 30 years in organic auditing and certification, Ecocert is the global specialist in certification of sustainable practices. The recent growth in the number of clients certified by Ecocert around the world demonstrates the interest shown in the sector and the Group's expertise in monitoring these ambitious projects.
Ressources and sources Quote request with Ecocert
