What does it mean to be GOTS certified?
At Ducky Zebra we're proud that our clothes are GOTS certified. But what does this mean? And why is it important?
GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standards and it’s regarded as the world’s leading certification for textiles made from organic fibres.
There are a number of certifications for ‘Organic Cotton’, many of which fail to check the product is organic from start to finish. This could mean that the fibres have been grown organically, but the dyes and manufacturing process aren’t organic. Or a product might claim to be ‘organic’ but only contain a small percentage of organic cotton in the finished item. The generic label ‘organic cotton’ isn’t clear or comprehensive enough.
What makes GOTS different?
The GOTS certification checks the product is fully organic from start (at the farm) to finish. This includes the seeds used to grow the cotton, the process of harvesting, the use of raw materials, the manufacturing process, right through to the labels and packaging.
Plus, unlike other certifications, it also includes important checks around the conditions and rights of the workers. In a complex industry, where supply chains aren’t always transparent, this level of rigour brings huge reassurance.
“Everything we create at Ducky Zebra inspires kindness and confidence. And so it was important to us that our clothes were made in a way that was kind to the environment, and kind to the people who were making them. By using GOTS certified organic cotton we know our clothes are kind, both ethically and environmentally.”
To be awarded the GOTS “organic” label, a product must:
- Contain at least 95% organic fibre
- Be free from harmful, toxic chemicals
- Avoid GMO (genetically modified organisms) seeds
- Use biodegradable, environmentally friendly dyes
- Avoid chlorine bleaching
- Avoid PVC, nickel or chrome accessories
- Be packaged responsibly, with all paper or cardboard being recycled or certified by FSC or PEFC
- Be produced by operators with strict environmental policies, including the reduction of energy and waste. And where there is waste, such as wastewater, for it to be treated in proper treatment plants rather than released into rivers or seas
- Be produced by operators who protect the welfare of their employees, including: freely chosen employment; safe and hygienic working conditions; no child labour; regular, non-excessive working hours; no discrimination; respecting the right to collective bargaining; the payment of a living wage and no harsh or inhumane treatment
How do you know your clothes are GOTS certified?
Take a look at the tags and labels for the official GOTS logo. All of our clothes at Ducky Zebra proudly display the certified logo on the inner-labels.
What does GOTS organic cotton mean to you? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
