GOTS provides a robust sustainability standard for organic textiles, based on the use of organically farmed natural fibres. Synthetic pesticides, fertilisers and genetically modified seeds are prohibited on organic farms, which are sustainable by definition. In the manufacturing of textile products, GOTS ensures sustainability by prohibiting the use of hazardous dyes and chemicals, requiring water treatment, and including clear social criteria based on the ILO norms. Organic textiles are underpinned by excellence in environmental and social performance based on third party verification. 

Organic textiles certified to GOTS clearly meet the strategic vision and the recommendations of the EU Strategy. GOTS looks forward to the review of the EU Textile Labelling Regulation by the EU Commission foreseen in the strategy. GOTS calls for reference to ‘organic textiles’ as a clearly defined term in this Regulation. We have repeatedly suggested this way forward to the Commission, with the publication of the EU Textile Strategy there is a real impetus to do this. The inclusion of the organic textile label in the Textile Labelling Regulation will support the delivery of the Strategy and provide the basis for further development of the market for organic textiles.