GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
The Global Organic Textile Standard, also known as GOTS, is the closest we come to a world standard for organic textiles. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the world's leading standard for textile processing when it comes to organic fibers. So if you want to be 100% sure that you are buying textiles that are both organic and chemical-free, then you must go for the GOTS label.
It defines high-level environmental criteria along the entire supply chain for organic textiles and requires compliance with social criteria.
To be certified, textiles must contain at least 70% certified organic natural fibres. All chemical inputs such as dyes and auxiliaries must meet a set of environmental and toxicological criteria along with the wastewater treatment plan for any wet treatment involved. The choice of accessories is limited in accordance with ecological aspects.
GOTS certification covers the entire textile process, including fair working methods (no child labour!) and the assurance that no known toxic substances are used as part of the manufacturing process and are therefore safe for humans. GOTS makes great demands on the producer, right from the first organic seed and harvest, to good and environmentally responsible processing of the product and to the final certification of the textile. GOTS requires that at least 90% of the product is made of natural fibres. GOTS also requires that the producer has a high level of social responsibility throughout the production process.
Textiles with GOTS certification are often slightly more expensive than "ordinary" organic textiles. But of course there is a reason for that. Because the GOTS certification places great demands on the entire production process, and it therefore costs money.
Why choose a GOTS certified product?
GOTS ensures the welfare of the people involved in production. For example, they make high demands that the workers in the various stages have good conditions, such as proper lighting, ventilation, breaks, no use of harmful chemicals, etc.
GOTS has a requirement that the production has a functional wastewater treatment plant if water is used in the production to protect the environment. There are regular quality checks at the various levels of production, where, among other things, laboratory samples and tests are made of the textiles for pesticide residues and other dangerous chemicals from e.g. the coloring. They also have strict requirements for which colors may be used in a GOTS-certified production, so that there are no residues in the textiles from colors that are suspected or proven to be allergenic and carcinogenic. Any brands and accessories on the product must also comply with GOTS requirements.
GOTS is therefore a guarantee that there are not - or have been - any chemicals harmful to health or the environment present during the production of the clothing, and is therefore 100% organic. Overview:
- 70% of the fibers must be organic (95% if they bear the name 'organic').
- All chemicals used in all stages of production must meet very high environmental criteria.
- Water consumption must meet high criteria.
- Packaging of the textiles must not contain PVC, and paper, cardboard, hangtags, etc. must be recycled or have special certifications.
- All companies that have been involved in production must meet social criteria from the International Labor Organisation.