Record high: 12,338 (+19%) GOTS certified facilities in 79 countries in 2021.
Twenty years after its inception, the textile processing standard for organic fibers records new all-time high figures: 18 Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Approved Certification Bodies report a total of 12,338 certified facilities (+19%) in 79 countries (+11%).
“What seemed utopian to many in 2002 has become a reality in the past 20 years. We have created an organic textile standard, certified by approved certification bodies, which is accepted in all major markets. GOTS is a standard that gives consumers the power to choose truly organic products sourced from sustainable supply chains.” says Claudia Kersten, managing director at GOTS. “Despite ongoing difficulties and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, decision-makers continue to pursue their sustainability goals and value GOTS as a tool to accomplish them.”
The results of the annual GOTS Survey among certified entities underline this. Out of 1,114 respondents (+39%), 63% indicated a permanent shift in their sustainability strategy with a focus on the environment and health of their workers and staff.
“As much as we are pleased with the development so far, we don’t intend to rest on our laurels” adds Rahul Bhajekar, managing director at GOTS. “In March 2022 we begin revision for GOTS version 7.0 involving all stakeholders including associations, organizations, companies and individuals to further advance the progressive, innovative, stringent yet practical standard of GOTS.”
For more information, please visit www.global-standard.org.