GOTS releases Version 7.0

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has announced the release of GOTS Version 7.0, which features an expanded scope of environmental and social criteria while maintaining a standard that is practicable for industrial production and appropriate for a wide range of products.

The social criteria section was substantially revised to include a broader human rights-focused approach. It allows recycled organic fibres as additional materials. Key requirements, such as certified organic fibre content, a general ban on toxic and harmful chemicals such as PFAS, conventional cotton and virgin polyester restrictions, and social compliance management, are maintained in GOTS Version 7.0.

Claiming full traceability from origin to destination, GOTS certification provides an efficient means of verifying genuine sustainability efforts.

GOTS 7.0 introduces new requirements to conduct risk-based due diligence of Certified Entities’ own operations and their supply chains based on the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights and the OECD guidelines.

Rahul Bhajekar, GOTS managing co-director, said: “GOTS Version 7.0 represents a major leap forward for processing organic textiles. The new revision process was the most inclusive in GOTS history, with over 600 inputs received during two public consultation periods. Version 7.0 offers solutions for creating truly responsible supply chains, setting a benchmark for the textile industry.”

Some of the changes in Version 7.0 include – GOTS and the Manual for the Implementation of GOTS were restructured, and sections were grouped to reflect the standard’s scope.

New due diligence criteria ensure that Certified Entities address their actual and potential negative impacts on human rights and the environment.

GOTS Environmental Criteria, Product Stewardship, and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) requirements will also apply to the subcontractors of chemical formulators.

Criteria for the incoming organic materials have been made stricter.

In the pursuit of circularity, GOTS will allow use of recycled GOTS Goods waste as an additional fibre in its certified products.

After the transition period, GOTS Version 7.0 will be fully effective from March 1, 2024.