Global Standards has launched a new textile standard.
It is called the Global Responsible Textile Standard (GRTS). The new standard covers a wider range of fibres.
These include plant fibres, animal fibres, synthetic fibres, man-made cellulosic fibres and recycled fibres. GRTS is based on the experience of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
GOTS covers products made from eligible organic fibres. GRTS adds a new route for other types of fibres.
What Does GRTS Cover?
GRTS sets rules for textile processing. It covers several areas.
These include:
- Environmental practices
- Chemical use
- Human rights
- Business conduct
- Due diligence
- Fibre tracking
The standard also sets rules for fibre supply.
Fibres must meet standards accepted by GRTS. They must also meet social and environmental rules. GRTS does not allow highly hazardous chemicals. It also does not allow GMOs.
The standard requires a clear chain of custody. This helps track fibres through the supply chain.
Independent Checks
Independent certification bodies will check companies. Checks are needed at each stage of processing and trade.
Transaction certificates help track certified materials. Volume checks also help confirm the amount of certified fibre.
Products must contain at least 90% certified fibres to meet GRTS rules. The fibres must come from standards accepted by GRTS.
First GRTS Certificates
Global Standards said 27 independent certification bodies can provide GRTS certification. Several South Asian companies are among the first companies to complete the process.
These companies are:
- Esstee Exports India Private Limited
- Sulochana Cotton Spinning Mills Pvt. Ltd
- Armstrong Spinning Mills Pvt Ltd
- Maral Overseas Limited
- Knit Gallery India Private Limited
- Arvind Limited
- Daks India Industries Pvt. Ltd
The companies received their certificates from independent certification bodies.
These first certificates mark the start of GRTS use in the market.
Companies Share Their Views
R Rameshkumar, Manager – HR / ESG & Sustainability at Esstee Exports, said the process helped the company review its work systems.
He said the certificate can help build customer trust. It can also help the company meet new needs in the global textile industry.
Tarun Bhati, General Manager – HR, Admin & Compliance at Daks India, said GRTS can support the company’s sustainability goals.
He said the standard can improve the tracking of recycled materials. He also said it can help support better production practices.
Rameshwar Jha, Senior Manager – Compliance at Maral Overseas Limited, said GRTS can support responsible sourcing.
He also pointed to fibre tracking and environmental performance. He said the standard can support social responsibility and product quality.
Global Standards on GRTS
Claudia Kersten, Managing Director of Global Standards, said GRTS is an important step for the organisation. She said the new standard covers fibres beyond organic fibres. GRTS also uses the same system as GOTS. This may help companies that already have GOTS certification.
The launch gives textile companies a new standard for a wider range of fibres.
