Textile Exchange has released an updated version of its Global Recycled Standard (GRS), a tool that companies can use to ensure the validity of recycled materials during production.
The standard has undergone many changes since its inception in 2011, the most important being chemical restrictions. The new GRS version 3, has specific regulations on the chemicals that can be used in the production of GRS items. Regulations are based on the assignment of hazard codes, rather than testing against the Restricted Substance List (RSL).
A crucial part of the revised standard is the input verification of material prior to recycling, which is now a part of the standard. Version 3 also places stronger social and environmental requirements across the entire certified facility.
Textile Exchange, which created the International Working Group (IWG) for the revision of the standard, said the goal of the GRS is to encourage companies to develop their own uses for reclaimed materials, to reward a dedication to social and environmental improvements in production, to provide communication to consumers, and supply more transparency throughout the supply chain.
The International Working Group is made representatives from five certification groups including Control Union, ICEA, IMO, Intertek and SCS Global Services. Prior to its release, the standard was reviewed by an additional group of stakeholders, which provided feedback during two separate public reviews.