Global Recycling Standard

Certification for Recycled Textiles

The Global Recycle Standard (GRS) is a voluntary international standard promoted by The Textile Exchange, a nonprofit organisation that promotes responsible and sustainable development in the textile sector.

Unlike other textile certifications, the GRS standard does not limit its scope to recycled plastics alone but rather evaluates any type of recycled material.

The goal is to define a production standard for companies working in the textile sector that guarantees ethical working conditions and a reduced environmental impact.

AN APPLICATION: WHO APPLIES?

The Global Recycle Standard (GRS) is applicable to products composed of at least 20% recycled fiber, including the following recycled materials: cotton, wool, polyester, polyamide, and leather.

It is aimed at manufacturing companies and announces the requirements for obtaining third-party certification, by an accredited Certification Body, of recycled input and chain of custody for the development of a sustainable production and consumption model. The goal is to promote the reduction of resource consumption (raw materials, water, and energy) and increase the quality of recycled materials and products.

The GRS requires the issuance of an environmental declaration verified by a third-party audit conducted by an accredited Certification Body that ensures:

Products containing at least 20% pre- and post-consumer recycled material;
Manufacturing activities and processes through which recycled material is used to produce intermediate products (e.g., yarns and fabrics) or finished products intended for the consumer, using management models and procedures that comply with established requirements.

Reduce the environmental impacts of production processes while ensuring the same quality standards for the Organization’s customers;
Ensure the sustainability of the processes and products involved;
Increase the percentage of recycled content in products placed on the national and international market.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?

By applying the GRS scheme, the Organization objectively and certifiedly demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability, improving its credibility and image among various stakeholders.

Applying the GRS certification brings significant benefits, as, in addition to reducing the overall environmental impact of its operations, it provides a significant boost to the development of the green economy and allows the Organization to monitor and demonstrate the sustainability of its products through compliance with sustainability requirements.

The GRS certification guarantees the preservation of the identity of recycled material from the recycling process to the final product.

FOLLOW THIS LINK TO FIND OUR CERTIFICATION DOCUMENT.

Here you can find more information about the GRS certification on the official website.

Responsible Wool Standard

The Responsible Wool Standard aims to improve the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on.

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) is a voluntary international standard that certifies the entire wool supply chain, from sheep farming to the final business-to-business step before the brand. It was created to ensure that wool comes from responsibly managed farms, with attention to animal welfare, land conservation, and working conditions along the supply chain.

What it is and what it guarantees

The RWS was developed by Textile Exchange and applies to all sites involved in wool production and processing, which must be verified by independent certification bodies. The standard requires that certified wool come from farms that adopt responsible farming practices, adhere to high animal welfare standards (including the prohibition of cruelty), and manage pastures to preserve soil health and biodiversity.

Main Objectives

The main objectives of the RWS include protecting the welfare of sheep throughout their life cycle, preserving the quality and resilience of grazing land, and ensuring fair and safe working conditions for those involved in the supply chain. The standard also ensures a chain of custody system that maintains the traceability of certified wool from the farm level to the intermediate product intended for brands, enabling credible communications and claims to the market.

Why it’s important for a textile company

For a company like FILBEST, adopting RWS-certified wool means being able to offer products that meet customer expectations in terms of animal welfare, environmental responsibility, and reliable supply chain information. The certification also supports the brand’s positioning on sustainability and transparency, facilitating dialogue with international brands and retailers who require globally recognised standards.

FOLLOW THIS LINK TO FIND OUR CERTIFICATION DOCUMENT

Here you can find more information about RWS certification from the official website.

Sustainable Fiber Alliance (SFA)

The Sustainable Fiber Alliance (SFA) is a nonprofit organisation that promotes global standards for the responsible production of natural animal fibers, with a particular focus on cashmere and other animal fibers. Its goal is to reduce environmental impact, improve animal welfare, and safeguard the living conditions of farming communities around the world. The SFA represents a global alliance that involves all stakeholders in the supply chain, from herders to fashion brands.

SFA Certification Principles and Approach

SFA certification is based on five fundamental principles for responsible production, including sustainable practices, respect for animals, and support for local communities. The approach is inclusive and collaborative, grounded in a deep understanding of grazing systems and pastoral traditions, and integrated with scientific data and international best practices.

Main Objectives

The SFA wants to reduce the bad impacts of climate change, loss of plant and animal variety, and the financial struggles of nomadic herders by encouraging responsible use of grazing lands and enhancing the living and working conditions of communities that rely on these practices. It promotes the continuity of traditional pastoral practices while ensuring traceability and accountability along the entire fiber supply chain.

Presence and Operations

The SFA operates primarily in Mongolia, China, and Afghanistan, collaborating with over 60 members worldwide, including producers, processors, brands, and retailers. Its standard covers raw material production, primary processing, and the global chain of custody of certified fibers, providing a reliable assurance system for cashmere and other responsible animal fiber products.

FOLLOW THIS LINK TO FIND OUR CERTIFICATION DOCUMENT.

Here you can find more information about SFA certification on the official website.