Understanding Fashion Certifications: What They Mean for Your Clothes
Fashion certifications are key to understanding the impact of our clothing choices. Below, we delve into several leading certifications and explore their significance in promoting environmental and social responsibility in fashion.
1. Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- What it stands for: GOTS is one of the premier certifications for textiles made from organic fibers. It ensures the organic status of textiles from the harvesting of the raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labeling, providing a credible assurance to the end consumer.
- Why it matters: With stringent standards that cover the use of harmful chemicals, waste management, and fair labor practices, GOTS-certified products offer transparency and trust, ensuring that products are not only organic but also produced in a way that values people and the planet.
2. Fair Trade Certified
- What it stands for: This certification is primarily concerned with the social aspects of production. It ensures that the workers involved in making goods are paid fair wages and work in safe, humane conditions.
- Why it matters: Choosing Fair Trade Certified products directly supports the fight against poverty, empowering workers and ensuring fair conditions. This not only helps build more sustainable communities but also promotes a more equitable global trade system.
3. OEKO-TEX Standard 100
- What it stands for: This label certifies that every component of this garment, from the thread to the buttons, has been tested for harmful substances and that the article therefore is harmless in human ecological terms.
- Why it matters: OEKO-TEX certification is particularly important for skin contact textiles and provides peace of mind that the clothing you wear is free of substances that could harm your health.
4. Bluesign
- What it stands for: Bluesign certification focuses on consumer safety, air and water emissions, and the health of occupational workers. It aims to remove harmful substances right from the beginning of the manufacturing process and sets and controls standards for an environmentally friendly and safe production.
- Why it matters: By ensuring that products are produced with minimum impact on people and the environment, Bluesign-certified products represent a safe choice for the environment-conscious buyer.
5. Cradle to Cradle Certified
- What it stands for: This certification evaluates product safety for human and environmental health, design for future life cycles, and sustainable manufacturing processes.
- Why it matters: Products that achieve Cradle to Cradle certification support a circular economy. These products are designed either to biodegrade naturally and safely or to be recycled into new products, minimizing waste and encouraging sustainability.
Tips for Buying Cleaner Clothes
In addition to recognizing certifications, here are practical tips to ensure your fashion choices are as responsible as they are stylish:
- Check the Labels: Always read the labels for sustainability certifications. These labels are your best insight into the ethical and environmental footprint of the clothing you buy.
- Research Brands: Spend a few minutes looking up a brand’s sustainability policy. Many brands now have detailed sections about their production processes and corporate responsibility initiatives.
- Choose Quality Over Quantity: Invest in higher-quality garments that will last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thus lessening waste.
- Consider Second-Hand and Vintage: Second-hand stores, vintage boutiques, and online platforms are great for finding unique pieces that do not require new resources.
- Mind the Materials: Favor natural, renewable, or recycled materials that have lower environmental impacts. Materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled polyester are often better choices.
Through informed choices and awareness of the certifications that matter, consumers can make a significant impact on the fashion industry. By supporting brands and products that align with sustainable and ethical production, we can all contribute to a more responsible fashion ecosystem.
If you have questions feel free to write us an e-mail: info@bgbczurich.ch
