The top two reasons that discourage consumers from purchasing sustainable fashion are limited availability and the challenge of distinguishing sustainable products (Bain & Company, 2022). Certifications not only enhance credibility of sustainability and ethical claims, but also prevent confusion and greenwashing, in addition to ensuring transparency through third-party audits of materials, factories, and traders, while raising awareness about sustainability and fair practices in the industry.
Listed below are a compiled selection of the leading certifications in the fashion industry supply chain to assist you in navigating the realm of sustainable production. These certifications encompass fair labour practices, social considerations, and environmental impact.
The Environment
Lower Impact Materials:
- Organic Content Standard (OCS)
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- Global Recycled Standard (GRS)
- Recycled Claim Standard (RCS 100)
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
- Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes (PEFC)
- Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA)
- Leather Working Group (LWG)
- ZQ Merino
- Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)
- Cradle to Cradle Certified
Material Processing/ Chemical Control:
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- Bluesign
- OEKO-TEX
- OEKO-TEX® DETOX TO ZERO
- Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC)
- Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
- Responsible Care
Packaging:
Emissions Offset:
Worker Wellbeing
Fair Conditions/Third Party Audits:
Animal Welfare
Certified Vegan:
Responsible Sourcing for Animal Ingredients:
Giving Back
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