Global Organic Textile Standard

The GOTS is recognised as the world's leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibres. The standard complies to very high-level environmental criteria throughout the whole organic textiles supply change as well as requiring compliance with social criteria.

There are four organisations; OTA (USA), IVN (Germany), Soil Association (UK) and JOCA (Japan) which contribute their expertise in organic farming and enviromentally and socially responsible textile processing to GOTS as well as other international stakeholder organisations and experts.

Aim:
To define globally recognised requirements which ensure the organic status of textiles from the harvesting of raw materials to labelling. 

• Textiles miust contain a minimum of 70% organic fibres to become GOTS certified. 
• Chemical in inputs must meet certain enviromental and toxicological criteria
• The choice of accessories is limited in accordance with ecological aspects (zips etc.)
• A waste water treatment plant is required for any wet-processing unit and the processors must comply with the minimum social criteria

Mission Statement: 'Our Vision, Our Mission'

"Our vision is that organic textiles will become a significant part of everyday life, enhancing people’s lives and the environment."

"Organic production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic, persistent pesticides and fertilizers...we define organic textiles as being processed with the least possible impact and residual natural and synthetic chemical inputs." 

"We foster constant progress towards development of better textile processing methods."

"As a global network we have representatives working to promote GOTS around the world. For us, team spirit means more than mutual respect, understanding and trust; it means working together to achieve solutions. Respect for both people and the environment drives us."

I have outlined the pure basics of this standard, it was introduced in 2006 and is supported with the growth in consumption of organic fibres and demand for unified processing criteria from the industry to retail sector. The universal recognition had allowed processors and manufacturers to supply organic textiles with a certification which is accepted in all major markets.

The GOTS is actually visible in large-scale retailers and brand dealers, not just in natural textile shops. This proves that it is possible for high street shops and brands to change their production and manufacturing methods. Yes, it may take time but the long-term results would be worth it.

Reference: www.global-standard.org/