GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) has released version 6.0. The revision process is undertaken every three years. Key requirements such as certified organic fiber content, the general ban on toxic and harmful chemicals, conventional cotton and virgin polyester as well as the social compliance management have been maintained, while other criteria have become stricter.
When it comes to environmental criteria, product stewardship and environmental health and safety requirements have been introduced for approved chemical formulators. The new version withdraws the relaxation for the additional regenerated and virgin synthetic fiber content for socks, leggings and sportswear. Additionally, product quality standards for color fastness and dimensional stability are now mandatory. Specific new requirements for tampons and food contact textiles have been included. GOTS is a standard for the processing of textiles made from organically produced natural fibers. GOTS defines world-wide recognised requirements that ensure third party certified organic status of textiles with full traceability from field to finished product.
The transition period for users of GOTS to fully comply with the new version will be one year. The standard version and the corresponding implementation manual, as well as the list of changes, are available on the website and can be downloaded.
