Due to the current climate emergency and fashions’ environmental impact, circularity has become a necessity for our society. As consumers and authorities become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, fashion brands are under pressure to adopt circular economy practices. One way to demonstrate commitment to sustainability is through sustainability certifications.
Sustainability certifications play a crucial role in the fashion industry. They serve as symbols and validation for a company's commitment to responsible and environmentally friendly production practices. With the increasing demand for ethical and sustainable fashion, these certifications help consumers make informed purchasing decisions, increasing the industry’s transparency.
The sustainable certifications for the fashion industry were created to:
European fashion certifications are particularly important due to the member states’ huge commitment to the environment. Europe is also one of the world's leaders in sustainability and social regulations. This situation promoted the creation of different certifications that ensure companies’ compliance with this new legislation landscape.
Sustainability regulations for fashion are not only important to demonstrate fashion companies’ compliance, but they also create competitive advantages for those brands that got them. These certifications enhance a brand's reputation by showcasing its commitment to sustainability and validate its efforts to contribute to a new circular economy and reduce the industry’s climate impact. Consumer demand for circular fashion has been increasing during the last decade, so getting these certifications should be a priority for them.
In addition to this growing demand for circular fashion, sustainable certifications can also facilitate foreign brands to enter the European market, one of the most important in the world. By getting these certifications, European authorities can verify its compliance with European standards and requirements for textile products.
Several key certifications are recognized in Europe for their rigorous standards and comprehensive coverage of sustainability issues. Here are some of the most notable ones that every fashion brand must know:
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the world's leading textile processing standard for organic fibres. It includes ecological and social criteria, backed up by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain. GOTS-certified products are free of allergenic, carcinogenic, or toxic chemical residues and ensure fair labour practices.
OEKO-TEX standards enable responsible decisions and protect natural resources. Products bearing the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 and OEKO-TEX LEATHER STANDARD labels have been scientifically tested for harmful substances and are a safer choice for health. The OEKO-TEX MADE IN GREEN label indicates products produced more sustainably in socially responsible workplaces.
The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is the world's leading sustainability initiative for cotton. BCI promotes measurable improvements in the key environmental and social impacts of cotton cultivation worldwide, making it more economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable.
Bluesign unites the entire textile value chain to reduce the impact on people and the planet. It works with system partners, including brands, manufacturers, and chemical suppliers, to develop unique solutions for sustainable production.
The Cradle to Cradle Certified program applies to materials, subassemblies, and finished products. It ensures that products are either completely recyclable or biodegradable and made with the lowest impact manufacturing processes.
Sustainability certifications have a significant impact on consumer purchasing decisions. They provide a clear and credible way for consumers to identify sustainable products and make ethical choices.
Certifications help build trust between consumers and brands. When consumers see a certification label, they know that the product has been independently verified to meet high standards of sustainability.
As awareness of sustainability issues grows, more consumers are looking for certified products. This shift in behaviour is driving brands to adopt sustainable practices and seek certifications to meet consumer demand.
Certifications provide consumers with the information they need to make informed choices. This helps them support brands that align with their values and contribute to a more sustainable future.
The landscape of sustainability certifications is constantly evolving. As new challenges and opportunities arise, certifications will continue to adapt and improve.
Future certifications are likely to place a greater emphasis on the circular economy. This includes promoting practices such as recycling, upcycling, and designing products for longevity.
Digital tools and platforms will play a crucial role in enhancing transparency and traceability. Technologies such as blockchain can provide real-time information about the supply chain, making it easier for consumers to verify the sustainability of products.
There will be a push for greater collaboration and standardization among certification bodies. This will help create a more cohesive and comprehensive framework for sustainability in the fashion industry.
The scope of certifications will continue to expand to cover new areas of sustainability. This includes addressing issues such as biodiversity, water stewardship, and social equity.
In conclusion, sustainability certifications are essential for ensuring ethical and environmentally friendly practices in the fashion industry. European fashion certifications, in particular, set a high standard for brands worldwide.
Recovo creates circular solutions for the fashion industry. We cover various aspects of the circular economy for brands:
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