Sustainable fashion certifications are third-party programs that assess and verify the sustainability practices of fashion brands and products.
They are there to ensure that the items you purchase meet several criteria, including:
- The use of sustainable materials;
- Fair treatment of workers and communities;
- Reduction of environmental impact across supply chains.
With these certifications in mind, you can shop confidently, knowing that you're doing your part in making the world a better place for yourself and for future generations.
Here is our essential guide to some of the best-known and most recognisable green ethical fashion certifications issued by well-established institutions that you should keep an eye out for when shopping.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
Most of us have heard about this one, but what is GOTS certified organic cotton? It's a fabric made according to the requirements of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) - one of the most comprehensive organic textile certifications in the world.
GOTS certification ensures that textiles are made with at least 70% organic fibres and that the production process meets strict environmental and social criteria.
To obtain GOTS certification, fashion makers must comply with all the requirements set out in the GOTS standard, which includes both social and environmental aspects.
The standard lays down specific criteria that must be met in every stage of textile production, ensuring both transparency and traceability.
By purchasing GOTS-certified products such as Misona’s Organic Cotton Towels and Bath Mats, which are made from 100% GOTS certified organic cotton, consumers can be confident that their latest purchase meets high sustainability standards.
Choosing organic textiles is a great sustainable fashion choice, as the growth of organic cotton uses less energy, releases fewer greenhouse gases and, because of the improved quality of the soil it its grown in, requires much less water.
Bluesign
Bluesign certification is a globally recognised certification program that verifies whether textiles are made with low environmental impact materials and also if the production process is environmentally friendly.
Bluesign’s mission is sustainable textile production that protects the environment, conserves resources, and safeguards workers' health.
The certification process considers every aspect of textile production, including raw materials, water usage, energy usage, and chemicals.
The assessment examines the entire production process, from resource acquisition to the finished product's disposal.
The Bluesign certification aims to ensure products are made with minimal environmental impact.
OEKO-TEX
The OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification is an internationally recognised standard that verifies whether the textile goods are free from harmful and toxic substances and chemicals.
The organisation’s mission is to provide manufacturers and consumers with information about the safety and sustainability of textiles and leather products.
To obtain OEKO-TEX certification, fashion makers must submit their products to independent testing facilities for assessment.
OEKO-TEX certification assures consumers that the textile products they are purchasing do not contain any harmful substances.
All of our Organic Cotton Towels, Bath Mats and Ultra Soft Bamboo Towels feature the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification for peace of mind.
Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)
Cotton is one of the most commonly used fibres in the textile industry, and its production can significantly impact the environment and the people involved in the process.
Better Cotton Initiative's (BCI’s) mission is to create long-term change in cotton production by helping farmers grow cotton in a way that reduces stress on the environment and improves farmers' livelihoods.
Many companies are choosing to use BCI-certified cotton in their products, including organic towels that meet the production guidelines of the initiative.
Fairtrade
This is possibly the most recognisable sustainable certification you will come across.
The Fair Trade certification ensures that producers and workers in developing countries receive fair prices and decent working conditions.
Fair Trade’s mission is to empower marginalised producers and workers to improve their lives and communities.
The Fair Trade certification program also promotes environmental sustainability.
To obtain Fair Trade certification, fashion makers must meet specific criteria, including reasonable prices for producers, proper working conditions for their employees, and environmental sustainability.
Fair Trade certification assures consumers that their products are made with social and environmental responsibility in mind.
B-Corp
B-Corp certification verifies a company's commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
B-Corp's mission is to promote a more sustainable and equitable economy by recognising businesses that strive to use their power to solve social and environmental problems.
Companies must submit their operations and practices to independent assessment in order to obtain B-Corp certification.
The evaluation encompasses the company's impact on workers, the community, the environment, and customers.
B-Corp certification assures consumers that the company they purchase from is committed to social and environmental responsibility.
Overview
Sustainable fashion certifications are crucial in ensuring that fashion makers are following ethical and eco-friendly production practices.
Whether you go for bamboo towels UK or recycled materials, you can make informed decisions by opting for products certified by one (or more) of these organisations and choosing ethical brands to purchase from.