Unlike many other industries, there are only a few regulations that apply to fashion brands.
The responsibility has been left on to the industry itself to improve its harmful practices, which come at a great cost to the planet.
In fact, critics claim the industry is so unregulated, that it is largely responsible for a looming climate crisis.
Often said to be among the top 5 polluting industries in the world, the fashion industry has a significant environmental footprint, including water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation.
It causes about 10% of the world's carbon emissions, which is more than what all international flights and ships produce together. It also accounts for 20% of global water pollution.
Moreover, the rise of fast fashion has just added fuel to the fire.
And these effects are just the tip of the iceberg.
This is where certifications come in. Sustainable certifications help identify brands and products that minimize their negative impact on the environment.
By choosing certified brands, we support practices like using sustainable materials, minimizing waste, and reducing pollution, which contribute to the preservation of our planet.
Labels like "green" and "eco-friendly" don't tell us much about how environmentally friendly a clothing brand actually is. They can be misleading because they are vague and can be used just for marketing purposes.
Sometimes the fashion industry relies on animal-derived materials such as fur, leather, and exotic skins.
They even use toxic chemicals in textile production that can have adverse effects on the health of workers and consumers.
Sustainable certifications prevent this. They require brands to disclose information about their supply chains, production processes, and environmental and social performance. Certifications often involve independent audits or assessments, ensuring that the claims made by brands are verified and trustworthy.
Textile Industry is one of the worst to exploit women. 80% of global garment workers are women, and paid some of the lowest wages.
Workers, particularly in low-wage countries, may experience long hours, low wages, unsafe workplaces, and limited labor rights.
Fast fashion's demand for quick production at low costs often prioritizes profit over worker welfare and thus has been associated with human rights violations, including forced labor, child labor, and unsafe working conditions.
Sustainable certifications consider factors such as fair wages, safe working conditions, and workers' rights. Certifications verify that companies adhere to ethical labor practices, promote gender equality, and provide safe and healthy workplaces.
You can find more such details on our blog: Stats and Risks with Fashion Industry
Whether you're looking for clothing made with organic materials or want to support brands with ethical working conditions, these certifications cover a wide range of concerns for conscious shoppers.
Now that you know why certifications are important, it's time to dive into some popular certifications and understand what they stand for
Importantly, keep an eye out for the logos. Most certified products or brands will display only the logo of these certifications, which you will have to learn to identify.
In fact, you might have come across the logos of some of these certifications but did not get a chance to recognize them or learn more about them. And this is our attempt to do just that, in giving you a comprehensive look into these certifications, and a guide towards a sustainable and conscientious approach to fashion.
What is the Better Cotton initiative?
The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a global non-profit organization established in 2005. It aims to make cotton production more sustainable by promoting better farming practices, reducing environmental impact, and improving the livelihoods of cotton farmers
The BCI has over 2,500 members over the world, and one-fifth of the world's cotton is cultivated according to their Better Cotton Standard.
What products does the Better Cotton Initiative certify?
BCI certifies entities involved in the production and trade of cotton. Various stakeholders in the cotton supply chain can become members of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). This includes cotton farmers, ginners, spinners, fabric mills, garment manufacturers, brands, retailers, and other organizations involved in the production and trade of cotton.
BCI works with them to promote the adoption of its Better Cotton Standard System. This system provides guidelines for sustainable cotton production, covering areas such as water efficiency, pesticide use, soil health, and labor conditions.
How do companies get BCI certified?
First, the organization must assess its own operations and practices to ensure alignment with BCI's sustainability standards and membership criteria. This may involve evaluating their supply chain, farming methods, social practices, and environmental impact.
After conducting the self-assessment, the organization submits an application to BCI, providing the necessary documentation and evidence of their compliance with the standards.
BCI reviews the application and conducts a thorough assessment to verify the organization's eligibility for membership. This may include on-site visits, interviews, and documentation reviews.
Once the organization successfully meets the criteria and passes the assessment, they are granted BCI membership.
Things to know about Better Cotton Initiative
What is Bluesign?
Bluesign® is a highly respected voluntary standard for the textile and apparel industry, established in 2000. It focuses on ensuring environmentally friendly and socially responsible production processes. The Bluesign system offers a transformative solution for brands, retailers, manufacturers, and chemical suppliers to revamp their supply chain practices.
For garments to be classified as bluesign® approved clothing, they must meet certain criteria, including the use of at least 90% bluesign® approved fabric and 30% approved accessories.
What products does the Bluesign certify?
Bluesign certification is primarily focused on certifying textile and apparel products. It covers various stages of the textile supply chain, including raw materials, chemical inputs, textile production processes, and the final product. It exclusively certifies clothing, textiles, prints, decorative materials, accessories, labels, home textiles and upholstery, fabrics, yarns, fibers, chemicals, dyes, coatings, linings, trims
How do companies get Bluesign certified?
Brands that choose to be bluesign® approved undergo a comprehensive transformation of their manufacturing process to ensure the safety of consumers, workers, and the environment. The bluesign® criteria is based on five principles: resource efficiency, consumer safety, water and air emissions control, and occupational health and safety. It tests the process against harmful chemicals. Chemicals used are classified as blue, grey, or black, with the latter being forbidden and requiring safe alternatives.
The label uses science-based chemical assessments to evaluate the potential hazards of over 20,000 chemical formulations. Based on these assessments, chemicals are categorized as blue, gray, or black. If forbidden chemicals are found, bluesign® works with the brand to replace them with compliant alternatives that meet their criteria.
Once they fit the criteria, brands need to submit an application and provide detailed information about their products, suppliers, and manufacturing processes. An on-site assessment is conducted by a third-party verifier to verify compliance with the standards. If any non-conformities are identified, the brand must implement corrective actions. Once all requirements are met, the brand is granted Bluesign certification. Regular audits are carried out to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement.
Bluesign® aims to establish a system and framework for sustainable garment and textile production that prioritizes the elimination of toxic chemicals and substances throughout the entire supply chain.
The goal is to eliminate harmful substances and ensure the entire supply chain follows environmentally friendly practices.
Things to know about the Bluesign Certification
What is B Corp?
B Corp, or Benefit Corporation, is a certification that shows a company is committed to doing good for people and the planet. It was started in 2006 by a nonprofit organization called B Lab. B Corporation is a unique certification that goes beyond fair trade practices and emphasizes a balanced approach between purpose and profit for businesses. These companies prioritize the well-being of their workers, customers, suppliers, and the environment.
What products does the B Corp certify?
B Corp certification applies to the overall business and not specific products, it signifies that the company as a whole operates in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
At present, over 6,000 Certified B Corporations are operating in over 80 countries across a wide range of industries, spanning more than 150 sectors.
How do companies get B Corp certified?
Companies begin by completing an online eligibility assessment to determine if they meet the basic requirements for B Corp certification. If a company qualifies, it must complete the B Impact Assessment, which evaluates its performance across various impact areas, such as governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. The assessment measures the company's overall social and environmental impact. A company must achieve a minimum score of 80 out of 200 points to become certified. Then they are required to provide supporting documentation and evidence to verify the information provided in the impact assessment.
B Lab, the nonprofit organization that administers B Corp certification, reviews the impact assessment, supporting documentation, and disclosure materials. They may also conduct additional interviews or site visits as part of the verification process. Site Reviews may be conducted virtually (via video call) or onsite (in-person) depending on the company size, location, and other standards-related factors.
If any areas for improvement are identified during the assessment, companies are allowed to make changes. After completing the assessment and verification process, B Lab makes the final decision on whether a company qualifies for B Corp certification. If approved, the company becomes a certified B Corp and can use the B Corp logo and branding. B Corp certification sets a higher standard by making the evaluation process more standardized and accountable.
Things to know about the B Corp Certification
What is Fairtrade?
Fairtrade is an international certification system that aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers and workers in developing countries. It was established in 1988 as a response to unfair trade practices.
Fairtrade operates through partnerships between brands, manufacturers, and farmers or cooperatives in developing countries
Fairtrade certification ensures that products are produced under ethical and sustainable conditions, with a focus on empowering workers and protecting the environment. It guarantees fair wages, and safe working conditions, and prohibits the use of child and slave labor. Additionally, Fair Trade-certified factories are committed to environmental sustainability through measures like water efficiency, waste reduction, and reduced chemical usage.
The Fairtrade Mark is displayed on over 37,000 products globally.
What products does the Fairtrade certify?
Fairtrade certification covers various products, including agricultural commodities like coffee, cocoa, tea, bananas, and sugar, as well as non-agricultural products like cotton and gold. It also covers clothing, ethical jewelry, and home decor.
How do companies get Fairtrade certified?
A company interested in Fairtrade certification contacts the Fairtrade team. The team understands the business and its specific supply chain and devises a plan to get them certified. This includes how the company can meet the Fairtrade Standards, which cover social, economic, and environmental criteria. These standards aim to ensure fair and sustainable production practices, fair prices for producers, safe working conditions, and environmental protection. The company must implement these standards in its operations.
After implementing the Fairtrade Standards, an independent third-party certification body FLOCERT conducts an audit of the company’s supply chain compliance with the standards. This assessment verifies that the required criteria are being met, including fair wages, fair trade practices, and adherence to environmental guidelines.
Brands that seek Fairtrade certification commit to sourcing their raw materials, such as cotton or other fibers, from Fairtrade-certified producers. The certification process involves a comprehensive assessment of the entire supply chain, from production to packaging. If the company meets all the requirements, they are granted Fairtrade certification.
Periodic audits and reviews are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with the Fairtrade Standards. This helps maintain the integrity of the certification and ensures continuous improvement in fair and sustainable practices.
Things to know about the Fairtrade Certification
What is Australian Certified Organic?
ACO (Australian Certified Organic) is a leading organic certification body based in Australia. It was established in 1987 and has since gained recognition both domestically and internationally. The standard covers various aspects such as organic farming practices, soil management, pest and weed control, livestock welfare, processing methods, labeling, and traceability. It ensures that ACO-certified organic products are produced and handled following strict organic principles, without the use of synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
As per ACO, Organics is a holistic approach to food production, recognizing the interconnectedness of soil, plants, animals, food, people, and the environment.
What does ACO certify?
ACO certifies a wide range of products across various sectors, including organic food and beverages, cosmetics, textiles, and agricultural products. This includes organic fabrics, fibers, and clothing made from organic cotton, wool, hemp, and other natural materials
How do companies get ACO certified?
Companies seeking ACO certification must submit an application and provide detailed documentation about their production methods, ingredients, and inputs used. ACO then conducts on-site inspections and audits to verify compliance with organic standards. This includes assessing farming practices, manufacturing processes, storage, labeling, and traceability. If the company successfully meets all the requirements, they are granted ACO certification and can display the ACO logo on their certified products. Ongoing compliance is required through regular inspections and audits to maintain the integrity of the certification.
To be certified organic, the entire production process must meet strict standards, including no use of prohibited chemicals for a minimum of three years. This applies to farming, manufacturing, and dyeing.
Things to know about ACO Certification
What is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a global non-profit organization founded in 1993. FSC ensures the sustainable use of forest resources and promotes responsible forest management. Its importance lies in providing a credible and trusted certification system that verifies products made from responsibly sourced timber and paper.
FSC works to combat deforestation, protect biodiversity, and support the rights of local communities and workers in forested areas. It sets strict environmental and social standards that forest managers and companies must adhere to obtain FSC certification. This includes practices such as avoiding illegal logging, protecting endangered species, and respecting the rights of indigenous communities.
What products does the FSC certify?
FSC certification applies to a wide range of forest-based products, including wood and paper products, such as lumber, plywood, furniture, flooring, and packaging materials. It also extends to non-timber forest products like medicinal plants, resins, and fibers used in the fashion industry, such as cellulose fibers (e.g., viscose, modal, lyocell) derived from trees.
50% of man-made cellulosic fibers are sourced from uncertified forests leading to deforestation and illegal logging. By opting for FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, brands can ensure that the forest-based fibers they use, such as viscose, lyocell, and modal, come from responsibly managed forests.
The FSC has certified 160 million hectares of forests globally, and more than 40,000 companies are certified to trade in FSC products. Those products, from books to tissues to beds, can either come from FSC-only material (FSC 100%), from a variety of sources but with at least 50% FSC-certified content (FSC Mixed Sources) or recycled (FSC 100% Recycled).
How do companies get FSC certified?
FSC is responsible for developing sustainable forestry standards and working with stakeholders to implement them. They do not issue certificates themselves but rely on independent certification bodies to issue them. The company seeking certification submits an application to an FSC-accredited certification body, providing information about its products, supply chain, and management practices.
The certification body evaluates to determine if the company meets the FSC standards. This includes reviewing documents, conducting interviews, and potentially visiting the company's facilities and supply chain partners. An on-site audit is conducted to verify compliance with FSC requirements. This involves examining records, conducting interviews, and assessing the company's practices and procedures related to forest management, chain of custody, and environmental and social criteria.
If the company meets all the requirements, they are issued an FSC certificate. Once certified, the company undergoes regular monitoring and audits by the certification body to ensure ongoing compliance with FSC standards. This includes periodic site visits, document reviews, and stakeholder consultations. The company also needs to establish a chain of custody system to track the flow of FSC-certified materials from the forest to the final product.
Things to know about FSC Certification
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What is the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)?
GOTS, short for Global Organic Textile Standard, is a widely recognized certification for textiles produced from organic fibers. It was established in 2006 by four leading organizations in the organic textile industry. GOTS certification ensures that products, from fibers to finished textiles, meet strict environmental and social criteria. GOTS-certified products use approved dyes and chemicals, avoid harmful substances, and manage wastewater properly. Social criteria include fair employment practices, no child labor, and respect for workers' rights.
It applies to a range of organic fibers, including cotton, wool, flax (linen), silk, and hemp fabric. Products that contain a minimum of 70% certified fibers can carry the GOTS label, while those with at least 95% certified organic fibers can be considered fully GOTS organic. Additionally, the label grade "organic in conversion" is allowed for agricultural practices that are in the process of transitioning towards organic within a 3-year conversion period.
What products does the GOTS certify?
GOTS certification covers the entire textile supply chain, including the processing and manufacturing of fibers, yarns, fabrics, and finished textile products. Some examples of products that can be GOTS-certified include organic cotton garments, bedding and linens, towels, socks, baby clothing, sportswear, and accessories like hats and bags.
How do companies get GOTS certified?
The criteria to be GOTS certified covers every stage of the textile supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to the final product.
The certification process begins with the applicant, typically a textile manufacturer or brand, submitting an application to a GOTS-approved certification body(third party). The certification body conducts an initial evaluation of the applicant's compliance with GOTS criteria. This evaluation includes an inspection of the production facilities and a review of documentation related to organic fiber sourcing, chemical use, waste management, and social criteria. These inspections also cover aspects of the supply chain, including fiber production, spinning, weaving, dyeing, printing, and final manufacturing. Additionally, periodic residue testing of products is performed to verify the absence of harmful substances. If the applicant meets the GOTS criteria, they are granted a GOTS certification.
Things to know about the GOTS certification
What is Oeko-Tex-100?
The Oeko-Tex is a globally recognized certification system for textiles and leather. It was established in 1992 and is a code for the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Ecology (Oeko-Tex) to ensure that textile products are free from harmful substances.
Oeko-Tex® STANDARD 100 is the standard offered by Oeko-Tex®. It ensures that every component of a product, including buttons, linings, threads, trims, and zips, has been tested for harmful substances and deemed safe for human health. The testing process includes an assessment of more than 100 substances, including azo dyes, formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and PVC, among others. The list is regularly updated to reflect new scientific findings and regulations. Products are categorized into four classes, depending on their usage and contact with the skin.
What products does the Oeko-Tex -100 certify?
The Oeko-Tex Standard 100 applies to various types of textile products, including raw materials, yarns, fabrics, clothing, accessories, home textiles, leather, bedding, towels, upholstery, and more.
Currently, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 product certification has attracted the participation of around 10,000 companies from over 90 countries, spanning all stages of the value-creation chain.
Class I: Textiles for Toddlers & Kids
Class II: Textiles intended for direct contact with the skin. This includes garments, underwear, bedding, and other clothing items.
Class III: Textiles that do not have direct contact with the skin. This category includes outerwear, accessories, and home textiles.
Class IV: Textiles used for decorative purposes such as curtains, upholstery, and other non-wearable textiles.
How do companies get Oeko-Tex-100 standard certified?
The Oeko-Tex-100 standard’s criteria cover national and international statutory requirements, including regulations on harmful substances like azo dyes, formaldehyde, and nickel. They also test chemicals not yet regulated by law and comply with REACH Directive and ECHA-SVHC Candidate List requirements
Oeko-Tex® relies on independent certification bodies to test products based on their criteria. The certification process begins with the submission of an application form by the manufacturer or brand. The application is then reviewed by the selected Oeko-Tex® institute, which defines the scope of the audit and success parameters based on the provided documents.
The products undergo extensive laboratory testing according to the STANDARD 100, which covers various test parameters and considers the intended use of the textiles. If the products pass the laboratory test, the manufacturer receives the STANDARD 100 certificate along with a detailed test report from the Oeko-Tex® institute. Additionally, an Oeko-Tex® expert may visit the manufacturer's site to verify the details either before or shortly after the certification process. Certification is valid for one year, requiring annual retesting.
To ensure quality assurance, the independent auditing institutes undergo audits by Oeko-Tex® every three years. Oeko-Tex® publishes an annual report and uses an impact calculator for transparency. These checks and balances maintain an impartial standard in the market.
Things to know about the Oeko-Tex-100 certification
What is Cradle to Cradle (C2C)?
Cradle to Cradle (C2C) is an innovative design framework that seeks to develop products and systems with a positive environmental and human health impact. It was first introduced in William McDonough and Michael Braungart’s 2002 book, “Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things.”The concept is based on the idea that materials used in products should be viewed as nutrients that can be continuously cycled and reused, rather than ending up as waste.
The importance of Cradle to Cradle lies in its holistic approach to sustainability. It goes beyond just reducing negative impacts and focuses on creating positive benefits. The framework encourages the use of safe and healthy materials, promotes renewable energy, and advocates for social responsibility throughout the supply chain. The cradle-to-cradle approach entails designing products in a way that allows their materials and components to be continuously repurposed or recycled. This "circular" approach ensures that old products are not wasted, reducing their environmental impacts.
C2C believes the fashion, apparel, textile, and footwear industries need to change how they work, how they source materials, design products, and produce them in a way that addresses the growing problem of clothing waste and low circularity rates. C2C helps companies in these sectors develop sustainable strategies and create future-oriented products. It provides guidelines for designing circular products and establishing responsible supply chains. It also emphasizes material health and cooperation throughout the value cycle chain
What does Cradle to Cradle certify?
C2C certifies home decor, furniture, textiles, building materials, cleaning products, clothing + accessories, and personal care items. Across various categories, over 34,000 products have received Cradle to Cradle Certification® to date.
How do companies get Cradle to Cradle certified?
Cradle to Cradle products are certified by a qualified independent assessment body. The Products Program evaluates products across five categories: Material Health, Material Reutilization, Renewable Energy Use, Water Stewardship, and Social Responsibility.
The certification program provides five levels of certification: Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Each level has progressively stricter criteria and requirements. To achieve certification at a specific level, the assessed product and manufacturing processes must meet the criteria set for that level in all five categories. This rigorous evaluation ensures that certified products meet high standards of health and sustainability, promoting a circular and responsible approach to product design and production.
The independent body conducts an initial evaluation to determine if the product is within the scope of certification. It is cross-referenced with the Banned chemical list.
The company needs to submit an application for certification along with any necessary proprietary information. The independent body will review your submission and provide a time and cost estimate. The company will have to collaborate with them to collect all the required data for certification. This may involve an on-site audit at the manufacturing facility.
After all the required information and the necessary documents are collected, the completed certification packet is submitted to the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute (C2CPII) for review. The C2CPII reviews the certification packet and supporting documentation to ensure completeness and accuracy. If approved, they issue a certificate allowing the use of the Cradle to Cradle Certified® mark. Certification remains valid for a period of two years and must be renewed every two years to maintain its validity.
Things to know about the Cradle to Cradle certification
What is WRAP?
WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) is a global non-profit organization that focuses on promoting ethical and responsible practices in the manufacturing of apparel, footwear, and other sewn products. It was established in 2000.
WRAP certification applies to the facilities involved in the production of these products, including factories, mills, and cut-and-sew operations. It assesses various aspects of a company's operations, such as labor practices, workplace conditions, environmental impact, and compliance with local laws and regulations. WRAP certification requires factories to follow 12 principles. These principles include obeying laws and workplace regulations, no forced or child labor, fair compensation, reasonable working hours, and safe conditions. WRAP has a zero-tolerance policy for violations and can revoke certification.
What products does the WRAP certify?
WRAP certification covers a wide range of industries, including apparel, textiles, footwear, and sewn products. There are around 3,300 facilities worldwide that have obtained WRAP certification.
How do companies get WRAP certified?
Manufacturers or facilities who are interested in obtaining WRAP certification, submit an application to a WRAP-accredited certification partner. A preliminary evaluation is conducted to assess the facility's readiness for the certification process. This may include reviewing documents, policies, and procedures related to labor practices, health and safety, and environmental impact. Then the auditors visit the facility to conduct an in-depth assessment of various aspects, including working conditions, worker rights, wages, working hours, health and safety measures, and environmental compliance. They interview workers, inspect facilities, review records, and verify compliance with WRAP's 12 Principles. If any non-compliance or areas for improvement are identified during the audit, the facility is provided with a Corrective Action Plan (CAP).
Once the corrective actions have been implemented, a final audit is conducted to verify compliance with the WRAP standards. The audit findings are documented and reviewed. Based on the audit results and compliance with the WRAP standards. If the facility meets all the requirements, it is granted WRAP certification.
There are three levels of certification, Platinum means a factory has shown full compliance for three consecutive inspections for the 12 principles. Gold is in full compliance with the 12 principles. Silver means substantial compliance with a few minor non-compliances, but no major violations. Silver-certified facilities must still meet important criteria, such as no child or forced labor, safe working conditions, fair wages, and compensation for overtime work.
Things to know about the WRAP certification
What is a Peta-approved Vegan?
PETA, a prominent animal rights organization, introduced the PETA-Approved Vegan certification to signify that a product is free from animal ingredients. It was established in 2015.
What products does the Peta-approved Vegan certify?
This certification applies to various items like accessories, furniture, home decor, and clothing, wallet, jewelry and is commonly displayed on clothing tags and webshop product images. The logo is used by over 1,000 companies globally, including prominent brands such as H&M, SKECHERS, and Dr. Martens.
How do companies get Vegan certified?
The certification process involves companies applying for the certification, providing information about their products and their manufacturers along with an assurance statement to never conduct, commission, pay for, or allow tests on animals at any stage of product development, including both ingredients and final products. PETA reviews the information provided and, if it meets the certification criteria, grants the company the right to use the PETA-Approved Vegan logo on their products and marketing materials. They must also establish agreements with their suppliers, ensuring that no animal testing is conducted for the products. That’s it.
Things to know about the Peta-approved Vegan
What is the Leather Working Group (LWG)?
The Leather Working Group (LWG) is an organization established in 2005 that promotes sustainable practices in the leather industry.
It is a non-profit membership organization that focuses on driving positive transformation throughout the global leather supply chain. They have standards to certify all actors in the supply chain, from rawhide to finished leather, covering micro-enterprises to large tanneries
What products does the LWG certify?
LWG certifies businesses that are leather manufacturers, leather traders, commissioning manufacturers, or subcontractors.
LWG primarily certifies the environmental performance of leather manufacturers, including tanneries. Their certification process evaluates various aspects such as waste management, energy usage, water treatment, and the use of chemicals.
The Leather Working Group (LWG) focuses on improving the environmental impact of tanneries and certifying leather-based on their standards.
How do companies get LWG certified?
The company needs to submit an online registration form on LWG’s website.
The form includes all the business information like addresses, sites, subcontractors, etc.
Next, the company needs to take a survey to mirror the Leather Manufacturer Standard, and may need time to implement the feedback from the survey throughout the business.
And finally, once the company is prepared for the audit, they need to contact an LWG Approved Auditor directly and arrange for an audit.
If everything is according to the standard, a company is granted the LWG certification in accordance to their adherence to LWG standards, as Gold, Silver, Bronze, or simply audited (wherein they have not met the minimum criteria for bronze).
Things to know about the LWG certification
No doubt these certifications make life better for consumers. Yet, that’s still quite some research to keep track of.
Which is why, we’ve already done the research for you in identifying the best authentic and green Fashion Brands to choose from.
Safety First
As you’ve read, there are numerous certifications, each of them with their own standards and values.
The most important aspect is for products to be safe to use.
Yes, these certified and green clothes can be a bit more expensive than conventional products. But this is largely because they need to have different processes which are safer and more responsible towards people and the planet.
In fact, fast fashion is cheaper because they are solely focused on mass production and don't care what is safe or good for use, to save on cost.
Aligning with values and choosing imperfect products
Beyond safety for yourself, is alignment of the product with your values.
Perhaps you value products which are cruelty-free and vegan. Or perhaps being sustainable for the planet is on your priority.
There could be products which are cruelty-free, but perhaps their packaging is not sustainable. And as we saw, there are companies that are good in one way, but bad in others.
One thing to keep in mind is most products are not going to be perfect in every way for people and the planet.
The important thing is, for products to be authentic about their sustainability practices, be an improvement over the conventional products, and not have misleading claims and look to manipulate customers.
Yes some brands may not be perfectly green, but likely far better than the industry standard, and are constantly improving their sustainability practices.
Going beyond product labels
A study suggests, if a product carries a third party label, it is the first thing 59% of consumers use for guidance, whereas 8% judge a product by a company's label.
These certifications and labels play an important role in providing transparency, accountability, and assurance to consumers.
These certifications and labels go beyond traditional product labels by a company and basic laws, and showcase enhanced social, environmental and ethical considerations.
Ultimately, such labels stand for increased transparency, accountability, and assurance to consumers.
However, it is important to remain critical and informed, as no certification system is perfect. There may be limitations, or areas for improvement in each.
And of course, obtaining certifications sometimes comes at a cost. It is possible for businesses to be sustainable even without having these certifications.
Influencing brands to improve accountability
Our choice of product is powerful.
As more consumers become aware of such certifications, understand them, and choose certified and sustainable products, brands will take note.
Brands will have to start adhering to certifications and enhance their disclosures and sustainability practices to win consumers.
And ultimately, there’d be more and better green brands for consumers to choose from, economies of scale would kick into the green consumer ecosystem, and green products would also become more affordable.
Going beyond certifications
While certifications are great, like everything in life, they are not perfect.
There may be limitations and areas for improvement in each. Some may be better than others.
But ultimately, they stand for increased transparency, accountability, and assurance to consumers. They are surely an improvement to a world without these certifications.
Our role is to remain critical and informed, and hold brands and certifications more accountable.
And of course, obtaining certifications comes at a cost. It is possible for businesses, especially small businesses, to be sustainable even without having these certifications.
