Nonprofit Global Standard has launched the GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Auditors which provides a comprehensive framework to guide certification bodies and their auditors in assessing compliance with the GOTS 7.0 criteria.
LANDMARK RESOURCE: This landmark resource is a critical step in promoting sustainable practices, human rights and ethical business conduct across the textile sector and in line with evolving regulatory requirements around the world.
- Designed to be practical and ensure consistent verification of due diligence, human rights and social criteria, it outlines clear, step-by-step methodologies for auditors to conduct thorough and effective audits.
- The Handbook is not intended to replace or override the existing audit protocols and procedures already used by Certification Bodies but instead provides additional insights and tools.
INTEGRATING RESPONSIBLE PRACTICES: In addition, the new handbook complements the GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities, which was released in 2023 and offers detailed guidance on integrating responsible practices throughout operations and supply chains.
- Together, these resources are essential elements of the Global Standard Due Diligence Framework and empower GOTS Certified Entities and Certification Bodies to play their part in maintaining the highest standards of human rights and environmental due diligence.
- GOTS 7.0 requires certified entities to respect universally recognised human rights criteria and follow the emerging legal obligations under the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and other due diligence laws.
THE CONTEXT: The handbook’s release is timely given the evolving global regulatory landscape, which is increasingly demanding stronger corporate accountability in business practices.
- Recently, the CSDDD introduced mandatory due diligence requirements for companies operating within the EU. The introduction of CSDDD significantly elevates standards for corporate transparency and accountability.
- Other laws, including Germany’s Supply Chain Act, France’s Duty of Vigilance Law and Norway’s Transparency Act, are placing similar expectations on businesses to manage their human rights and environmental impacts responsibly.
WHAT THEY SAID:
The GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Auditors is not only a milestone for GOTS, but also a transformative tool for the textile industry on its journey towards responsible production. This Handbook provides our Certification Bodies with the knowledge and guidance they now need to ensure that the highest standards of environmental and human rights due diligence are met and verified. By aligning with international frameworks and the recent legislative developments, we are further strengthening Global Standard’s mission to promote sustainable, transparent and socially responsible practices throughout global textile supply chains.
— Ruslan Alyamkin
Responsible, Standard Development and Implementation (Social Responsibility)
Global Standard
