#Sustainability

2025-01-09

Global Standard opens public consultation for GOTS version 8.0

The public is invited to consult on the next version of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and its Implementation Manual. Global Standard, the non-profit that owns and operates the Standard, makes the announcement at a time when the textile industry needs guidance on staying in compliance with global regulations and combat greenwashing.

GOTS revisions occur every three years in an open and transparent manner, seeking inputs from the public and expertise from industry stakeholders. As a dynamic Standard, GOTS remains relevant, effective and aligned with the latest developments in the textile industry, environmental and social responsibility, and regulatory frameworks.

“Global Standard is excited for the next era of GOTS in a period of evolving regulations and increased public awareness of the need for a more sustainable textile sector,” said Claudia Kersten and Rahul Bhajekar, Global Standard managing directors, in a joint statement. “We remain committed to our vision of a world where all textiles are produced in accordance with the principles of health, ecology, fairness and care to enhance people’s lives and the environment. GOTS Version 8.0 will continue to build on that and provide much-needed rules and tools for businesses and remain the trusted label for consumers.”

The first public consultation for the initial draft of GOTS Version 8.0 and accompanying Implementation Manual will remain open until 7 March 2025. Global Standard invites inputs from all stakeholders, which will be reviewed and discussed by the GOTS Standard Revision Committee. A second public consultation will take place in July. Summarized inputs and outcomes of comment discussions will be published on the GOTS revision webpage for transparency and further engagement.

As part of the process, Global Standard announced to the public 1 January 2025 the new Standards Revision Committee. This 25-member group chosen from over 50 applicants after a public appeal consists of representatives from all sectors of the textile value chain, including fibre production and processing, chemical production, manufacturing, labour, traders, retailers, consumers, the post-consumer sector, civil society and professional and technical services.

Read the first GOTS Version 8.0 revision drafts, submit comments and learn more on the GOTS Revision webpage.

https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-revision

Global Standard strengthens presence in Southeast Asia at VIATT 2026

Global Standard will participate in the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies (VIATT) 2026, organized by Messe Frankfurt, the first textile trade show in the APAC region this year. Global Standard will host a booth and Felica Shi will lead a seminar on Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The trade fair will take place from February 26 to 28, 2026, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

GOTS publishes update: Approval procedure & requirements for certification bodies – Version 4.0

The updated Version 4.0 has been aligned with the requirements of ISO 17065 and incorporates revised conformity assessment procedures and methodologies for Certification Bodies. These updates reflect best practices in evaluating management systems, thereby strengthening quality assurance, and safeguarding the integrity of certified products.

OECD assessment of GOTS indicates strong alignment with international due diligence frameworks

Global Standard, the non-profit organisation behind the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), announces today the conclusion of an OECD Alignment Assessment of GOTS Version 7.0. The OECD evaluated the standard against its Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains in the Garment and Footwear Sector and found GOTS to demonstrate strong alignment across all six steps of the due diligence framework.

Jeanologia urges industry to accelerate PP Spray phase-out following ZDHC Watchlist update

Potassium permanganate has officially entered the Chemical Watchlist of the ZDHC Foundation, signaling increased scrutiny and potential phase-out of one of the most hazardous chemicals still used in denim finishing. The inclusion confirms an industry shift that Jeanologia anticipated more than a decade ago.

VAUDE eliminates PFAS from all products

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are now detectable worldwide – in drinking water, soil and the human body. These so-called “forever chemicals” are considered hazardous to health and potentially carcinogenic, as they do not break down and remain in the environment permanently. Despite these risks, PFAS are still used in a wide range of products. More than 15 years ago, VAUDE made a strategic decision to gradually eliminate PFAS from all product categories.

JEC World 2026 returns with an unprecedented content program

Recognized worldwide as the leading trade exhibition for composite materials and their applications, JEC World returns on March 10-12, 2026, at Paris Nord Villepinte as the most ambitious edition to date, in line with its motto “Pushing the limits”. As the must-attend event for the composites industry, JEC World will offer an unprecedented program, blending conferences, markets insights, technical sessions, awards, and above all, a unique experience and invaluable connections.

Beyond the wardrobe – innovative cotton takes the spotlight

Cotton can do more – a lot more. Cutting-edge textiles and high-tech products made from 100% cotton prove just how powerfully performance and sustainability can come together. That very surge of innovation is front and centre at the 38th Bremen Cotton Conference, taking place March 25–27, 2026, at Bremen’s Parliament on the historic market square – culminating in a bold and dedicated closing session on Friday. In the spotlight: performance upgrades for pure cotton, smart strategies for circular textile waste solutions, and pioneering concepts for demanding technical applications. From natural fibre–reinforced composites to highly effective flame-retardant solutions, cotton steps out of the closet and shows the future potential woven into every fibre.

Keeping print inclusive: Empowering women in the print industry

Across all industries, cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace is increasingly recognised as valuable and essential to long-term success. However, despite the print industry’s significant advancements in technology and innovation, visible representation of women remains limited. As the sector grapples with low recruitment, it’s important to challenge outdated perceptions. Creating real change, however, requires collective effort - no single company can do it alone.