In the context of the fashion industry increasingly focusing on sustainability and social responsibility, the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) standard has become an important certification for garment businesses around the world. GOTS not only ensures that textile products are made from organic materials but also comply with strict criteria on the environment and working conditions. Achieving this certification brings many benefits not only in terms of brand reputation but also opens up opportunities to access international markets and meet the increasing demand of consumers for environmentally friendly products.
Let’s explore more about the GOTS standard and the benefits and opportunities it brings to garment businesses with Vishimex.
What is the GOTS standard?
The GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the leading global standard for textile products made from organic materials. Established in 2006, GOTS sets out strict requirements from raw material harvesting, production and commercialization, to ensure that organic textile products meet environmental and social sustainability requirements. A GOTS-certified product must comply with 70% to 100% organic materials and be free of harmful chemicals.
GOTS specific requirements
To achieve GOTS certification, garment businesses must comply with a series of environmental and social requirements. Here are some of the key requirements:
Raw materials
At least 70% of the materials used in the product must be organic fibers. Raw materials must not contain toxic substances such as azo dyes, formaldehyde, and heavy metals. In addition, the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in the cultivation of raw materials must be minimized.
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Production process
The production process must comply with standards for wastewater treatment and minimize negative impacts on the environment. Businesses must also use energy from renewable sources and limit carbon emissions.
Society
GOTS requires businesses to comply with standards for safe and healthy working conditions. This includes ensuring fair wages, not using child labor, and providing good working conditions for workers.
Labeling
GOTS certification requires products to be clearly labeled, including information about the ingredients and the standards to which the product complies. This helps consumers easily identify and trust the product.
Opportunities for garment businesses
With the growing trend of sustainable consumption, especially in developed markets such as Europe and North America, the application of GOTS standards opens up many opportunities for apparel businesses. Businesses can take advantage of this standard to reach customers who are environmentally conscious and willing to pay more for organic textile products.
The organic textile market is growing
According to Grand View Research’s forecast, the global organic textile market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.4% from 2021 to 2028, reaching US$22.6 billion in 2028. This shows that the demand for organic, environmentally friendly textile products is increasing.
Support from national policies
Many countries have begun to introduce policies to encourage the use of organic materials and sustainable products. In Vietnam, policies promoting the development of organic agriculture and green industry have opened up great opportunities for domestic garment enterprises to participate in the global supply chain.
Improving production processes
By applying production processes according to GOTS standards, enterprises can improve production efficiency, reduce waste and improve product quality. This not only helps to enhance competitive advantage but also helps enterprises maintain sustainable development in the long term.
Challenges in applying GOTS standards
Despite bringing many benefits, achieving GOTS certification also faces many challenges. Enterprises may have difficulty changing production processes, investing in wastewater treatment technology or renewable energy. Moreover, purchasing organic materials also requires long-term and stable investment.
GOTS standards not only bring economic benefits but also make important contributions to environmental and social protection. Applying this standard helps garment enterprises build reputation, expand markets and develop sustainably. In the context of the increasing trend of sustainable consumption, GOTS will certainly be an important standard, opening up many opportunities for enterprises in the garment industry.