Global Recycled Standard

INFORMATION

The  Global Recycled Standard (GRS)  is promoted by  Textile Exchange , one of the most important non-profit organizations that internationally  promote responsible and sustainable development in the textile sector . With this standard, Textile Exchange recognizes the  fundamental importance of recycling  for the growth of a model of  sustainable production and consumption;  aims to encourage the  reduction of  resource consumption (virgin raw materials, water and energy) and to  increase the quality  of recycled products. The GRS provides for the issue of a   third party verified environmental statement which proves:

• the content  of recycled materials of their products (both intermediate and finished)
• compliance  with environmental and social criteria in all of the production chain.

All products that are composed of at least 20% of  pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled materials can be GRS certified  . The GRS criteria extend to the following areas:

•  Product composition and content of recycled materials
• Maintaining  traceability throughout the entire production process
• Restrictions on the  use of chemicals.
• Compliance  with relevant environmental criteria which may concern: water supply; waste discharge; and water drains; energy recovery (use of selected waste); polluting emissions into the atmosphere; waste production and management; soil and groundwater contamination; management of dangerous substances, preparations and materials; noise emissions; emergency management
• Compliance  with social criteria relating to workers’ rights.

Steps that do not require certification:

•  Refuse collection
• Sorting,  selection, grouping.

Phases covered by the certification:

• Recycling  of materials
• Every  manufacturing process through which the recycled material is used  to make intermediate products  (for example: yarns and fabrics) or finished products intended for the consumer.