Certifications

The Nike case should not be treated as an isolated scandal but as a structural failing that demands structural reform. Without enforceable standards, empowered worker representation, and legal accountability, the cycle of exploitation will persist—repackaged each time with a new corporate excuse.

In today's world people move from one outrage to the next with as much ease as they swipe left over to the next reel. Last year’s Brazil cotton controversy has resurfaced not only because it has been a year to the revelation, but also because Better Cotton is itself pursuing the thread. And, the loopholes in Better Cotton's damage control exercise that was pointed out by Earthsight remain yawning.

The world’s leading sustainability initiative for cotton, Better Cotton, has strategically transitioned to become a certification scheme, underscoring its commitment to maintain highest standards of sustainability and transparency in the cotton industry.

The Oeko-Tex Association has updated its various applicable test criteria, limit values and requirements for its range of certifications and labels for the textile and leather industry.

A comprehensive framework is being meticulously chalked out to establish a globally recognised mark of authenticity for handmade products to safeguard the unique methods and traditions inherent in crafts, often passed down through generations, to enable artisans to compete fairly, ensuring fair compensation. The 'Seal of Crafts Authenticity' hopes to provide a trusted certification that would ensure buyers receive what is promised.

The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute has launched a new product certification called the C2C Certified Circularity offering measurable goals to guide all aspects of circular product development—from design and sourcing, to circular systems, packaging, and material health.

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has banned five Indian companies into the business of cotton for using fake documents to defraud the GOTS system.

The launch of the Testex Circularity Label by the Swiss testing and certification institute will enable brands and manufacturers to lead the charge towards a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry by minimising waste and maximising the lifespan of textiles through responsible design, production, and consumption.

Embroiled in controversies in recent times, Better Cotton will soon launch a new product label with evolving traceability capabilities to enable its network of retailers and brands to showcase their commitment to sustainable cotton production.

The Germany-based Hohenstein Group is a leading independent and accredited testing and research institute supporting the textiles sector. Vinod Kumar, Global Business Director at Oeko-Tex Eco Passport & Oeko-Tex Organic Cotton and also Managing Director of the Hohenstein Group for India, Sri Lanka and Middle East, touches on a host of topics in this tete-a-tete with texfash.com.