What is the Global Recycled Standard (GRS)?

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary, full product standard designed to drive higher percentages of recycled content in products and reduce the harmful impact of production on people and the environment. Owned by Textile Exchange, the GRS applies not only to textiles (yarns, fabrics, garments) but also to a wide range of industries including plastics, metals, and paper. It provides a transparent chain of custody to guarantee that the product is genuinely made from recycled materials.

Key Technical Criteria of GRS Certification

Beyond verifying the source of the materials, GRS rigorously audits the social and environmental impacts of manufacturing. The core technical requirements include:

• Recycled Content and Logo Use:

  • To be eligible for GRS certification, a product must contain a minimum of 20% recycled material by weight.

  • However, to use the consumer-facing GRS logo on the final product, the recycled content must be at least 50%.

• Chain of Custody:

  • The recycled material must be fully traceable from the recycling stage to the final end-product through Transaction Certificates (TCs). This strict traceability eliminates the risk of greenwashing.

• Environmental and Chemical Management:

  • Certified facilities must maintain strict records and targets regarding energy use, water consumption, waste management, and air emissions.

  • The use of hazardous chemicals (e.g., those restricted by REACH directives or listed in ZDHC guidelines) that are harmful to human health or the environment is strictly prohibited in the processing of GRS products.

• Social Responsibility:

  • Working conditions at the manufacturing sites must align with the core conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

  • Fair wages, reasonable working hours, and occupational health and safety must be ensured; child labor, forced labor, and discrimination are strictly prohibited.

Why Choose GRS Certification with ETKO?

As the transition to a circular economy accelerates, ETKO's reliable and internationally accredited GRS certification service allows your brand to substantiate its environmental commitments. With your supply chain audited by ETKO experts, you meet the stringent expectations of global brands and conscious consumers, while your proven transparency enhances your competitive edge in the market.