Global Standards has launched the Global Responsible Textile Standard (GRTS). The new textile standard covers a wider range of fibre types.
GRTS covers plant fibres, animal fibres, synthetic fibres, artificial cellulosic fibres and recycled fibres. The standard builds on the experience of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
GOTS focuses on products made from eligible organic fibres. GRTS creates another certification route for products using other fibre types.
What Does GRTS Cover?
GRTS sets requirements for textile processing and supply chains. The standard covers several areas, including:
- Environmental practices
- Chemical management
- Human rights
- Business conduct
- Due diligence
- Fibre traceability
The standard also sets requirements for fibre sourcing. Fibres must come from standards accepted by GRTS. They must also meet social and environmental requirements.
GRTS does not allow highly hazardous chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
The standard requires a clear chain of custody. This helps companies track certified fibres through the supply chain.
Independent Certification Checks
Independent certification bodies will assess companies against GRTS requirements. Certification checks apply across processing and trade stages.
Transaction certificates help track certified materials. Volume checks also help verify the quantity of certified fibre moving through the supply chain.
Products must contain at least 90% certified fibres to meet GRTS requirements. The fibres must come from standards accepted by GRTS.
First GRTS Certificates Issued
Global Standards said 27 independent certification bodies can provide GRTS certification. Several South Asian textile companies are among the first companies to complete the certification process.
The companies include:
- 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 initial use of GRTS in the textile market.
Companies Share Their Views
R Rameshkumar, Manager – HR / ESG & Sustainability at Esstee Exports, said the certification process helped the company review its work systems.
He said the certificate can help build customer trust. It can also help the company respond to changing requirements 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. It can also support better production practices.
Rameshwar Jha, Senior Manager – Compliance at Maral Overseas Limited, said GRTS can support responsible sourcing.
He highlighted fibre tracking and environmental performance. He also said the standard can support social responsibility and product quality.
Global Standards Explains the New Standard
Claudia Kersten, Managing Director of Global Standards, said GRTS is an important step for the organisation.
She said the standard covers fibres beyond organic fibres. GRTS also uses the same system as GOTS. This could help companies that already hold GOTS certification.
The launch gives textile companies a new certification standard for a wider range of fibres.
