GRTS (Global Responsible Textile Standard) requires the certification of all processing stages, from the first processing of responsible fibre to the finished product.
Every company involved must comply with the same criteria.
This ensures integrity across the entire supply chain and prevents partial or misleading claims.
GRTS applies to products made with at least 90% certified responsible fibres.
GRTS does not create new fibre production standards. Instead, it recognises fibres certified to approved third-party responsible fibre production standards that meet defined environmental, social and traceability criteria.
2.1 Key requirements for fibres to qualify as “responsible” under GRTS
- third-party certification
- identity-preserved chain of custody, meaning certified material remains identifiable and traceable throughout the supply chain
- non-GMO requirements
- restrictions on highly hazardous pesticides
- animal welfare safeguards, including no mulesing
- environmentally sound and resource-efficient production processes where applicable
- responsible sourcing requirements for forestry-based and bio-based materials
2.2 Eligible fibre categories for GRTS include:
- natural plant and animal fibres
- regenerated cellulosic fibres
- recycled natural and synthetic fibres
- biopolymers
- certified organic and organic in-conversion fibres below GOTS thresholds
This approach enables broad fibre flexibility while maintaining strict environmental, social and traceability requirements across the entire processing and manufacturing supply chain.
GRTS applies strict environmental requirements throughout textile processing, key areas include:
- Chemical input restrictions
- Wastewater treatment and textile waste management
- GHG emission management
- Packaging criteria
- Product safety and durability requirements
GOTS applies strict chemical input management requirements, permitting only approved substances listed on the GOTS Positive List. Each chemical is rigorously assessed against, hazard profile, safety and toxicity requirements.
GRTS includes comprehensive human rights including social criteria aligned with internationally recognised norms and frameworks.
Social criteria for GRTS cover:
- Safe and hygienic working conditions
- Prohibition of child labour and forced labour
- Non-discrimination, harassment and violence
- Freedom of association and collective bargaining
Working time, remuneration, and responsible employment practices. These criteria help safeguard workers’ rights and support more responsible practices across certified textile supply chains.
Certification is conducted by accredited Certification Bodies through regular on-site audits.
These audits verify compliance with all GRTS criteria across the supply chain.
GRTS ensures full traceability through documented and verified product flows.
Transaction Certificates confirm that materials and products move through certified supply chains.
GRTS integrates a structured due diligence approach aligned with international frameworks and evolving regulatory expectations.
8.1 The GRTS process supports companies in
- identifying and assessing actual and potential risks
- taking appropriate prevention and mitigation measures
- strengthening supply chain governance
Preparing for better compliance with regulatory requirements, this supports companies in responding to evolving environmental and human rights due diligence legislation.