Grow Your Ethical Fashion Impact: Certifications & Standards

If you’re someone who’s interested in ethical fashion, you may have come across terms like certifications and standards. It might sound like technical jargon, but it’s actually a crucial part of building a sustainable and fair industry. Ethical fashion is all about making fashion choices that take into account both people and the planet. Certifications and standards are tools that help manufacturers, brands, and consumers make better choices that align with ethical values. And as a consumer, it’s important to educate yourself about these certifications and standards because the power to make a positive impact is in your hands.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of certifications and standards in ethical fashion. We’ll cover why they matter, what some of the most common certifications and standards are, and how you can use this knowledge to make better purchasing decisions. This isn’t just about buying clothes; this is about making a positive impact on the world. So let’s get started.

Why Certifications and Standards Matter in Ethical Fashion

Before we dive into the different certifications and standards, let’s discuss why they matter in the first place. As consumers, we have the power to create change in the fashion industry through the choices we make. When we choose to buy from ethical fashion brands, we support better working conditions, fair wages, and reduced environmental impact. However, knowing which brands are ethical can be challenging.

This is where certifications and standards come in. Organizations develop these certifications and standards to ensure that fashion brands meet certain criteria related to ethical principles. These criteria could include things like safe working conditions, fair wages, responsible sourcing of materials, and reduced environmental impact.

The certifications and standards provide a framework that helps consumers identify ethical brands with confidence. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t buy a piece of technology without checking its specifications to make sure it meets your needs. Similarly, you shouldn’t buy clothes without understanding the ethical specifications that matter to you.

With that said, it’s important to remember that certifications and standards aren’t perfect. They’re created by humans, and as such, they have limitations. Some certifications may prioritize certain issues over others, and that might not align with your personal values. Additionally, some unethical brands may use certifications or standards as a marketing ploy, without actually implementing the necessary changes. Therefore, it’s important to approach certifications and standards with a critical eye and to do your research before making a purchase.

Common Certifications and Standards

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

The Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS, is one of the most recognized certifications for organic textiles. It sets high environmental and social standards, ensuring that certified products are not only made from organic materials but are also produced with minimal environmental impact. Additionally, GOTS requires that workers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions.

When you see a product with the GOTS certification, you can be confident that the entire supply chain, from farm to factory to finished product, meets ethical standards. However, it’s important to note that the certification only applies to organic materials, so a product with a GOTS label may not be vegan or cruelty-free.

Fair Trade Certified

Fair Trade Certified is a widely recognized standard that focuses on ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for workers in developing countries. The certification covers a range of products, including textiles, and requires that brands meet strict criteria related to human rights and environmental sustainability.

When you see a product with the Fair Trade Certification, you can be confident that the people who made it were paid a fair wage and worked in safe conditions. Additionally, the certification provides a premium to workers that they can use to invest in their communities.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a certification that ensures that textile products are free from harmful substances. This includes things like heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemicals that can be harmful to both people and the environment. The certification covers all stages of production, from raw materials to finished products.

When you see a product with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, you can be confident that it has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for human use. However, it’s important to note that the certification doesn’t cover environmental impact, so a product with this certification may not be completely sustainable.

Cradle to Cradle Certified

The Cradle to Cradle Certification is a rigorous certification that evaluates products on their environmental impact across their entire lifecycle. It covers factors like material health, renewable energy use, and social responsibility.

When you see a product with the Cradle to Cradle Certification, you can be confident that it meets a high standard of sustainability. Additionally, the certification encourages brands to think beyond reducing harm and actually design products that have a positive impact on the environment. However, it’s important to note that this certification is fairly rare in the textile industry, and you may not see it on many products.

There are many other certifications and standards in ethical fashion beyond these four. Some are specialized, like the WRAP certification that focuses on the apparel industry, while others are broader, like ISO 26000, which covers social responsibility in business.

Using Certifications and Standards to Make Better Purchases

Now that we’ve covered some of the most common certifications and standards in ethical fashion, let’s discuss how you can use this knowledge to make better purchasing decisions.

The first step is to identify the ethical values that matter to you. Are you more concerned about fair wages for workers, or reducing environmental impact? Do you prioritize organic or vegan materials? Once you know what matters to you, you can look for certifications and standards that align with those values.

When you’re shopping for clothes, be sure to look for certification labels on the product or on the brand’s website. You can also use third-party databases like Good On You or Remake’s Sustainable Brand Directory to find ethical brands. These databases often list the certifications and standards a brand holds, making it easy for you to determine if they align with your values.

It’s important to remember that certifications and standards aren’t the only factor to consider when making a purchase. You should still do your research into the brand’s sustainability practices to ensure they align with your values. Additionally, you can use certifications and standards as a starting point for a conversation. If you see a brand that you like but doesn’t hold a certification you value, ask them why and encourage them to consider it.

Conclusion

Certifications and standards are crucial tools in the world of ethical fashion. They provide a framework for brands to meet ethical criteria, and allow consumers to make better purchasing decisions. By taking the time to understand different certifications and aligning them with your personal values, you can make a positive impact on the fashion industry. Remember that certifications and standards aren’t perfect, and it’s important to approach them with a critical eye. But by incorporating ethical values into your fashion choices, you can contribute to a more sustainable and fair industry.