The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international standard in which product owners voluntarily comply with rules and regulations for the use of recycled materials in their products. The GRS standard was developed by Textile Exchange. This global non-fit organization has established a framework for monitoring the amount of recycled materials used in products and can track the origin and flow of recycled materials throughout the supply chain. GRS is not only widely used in the textile and apparel industry, but it has been widely accepted in various industries where recycled materials are used as ingredients.

What aspects does GRS place importance on?

• Recycled material content: Products eligible for GRS certification must contain at least 20% recycled material.
• Traceability throughout the supply chain: Every step of the process from the procurement of raw materials to the final product. It will be tracked and documented transparently. This gives consumers full confidence that the products they purchase contain exactly the specified proportion of recycled materials. 
• Environmental and Social Responsibility: GRS has set standards for reducing environmental impact throughout production. This includes water and energy use, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, it also places importance on social responsibility, safe, and fair working conditions throughout the supply chain to promote a holistic approach to sustainability.
• Restrictions on the use of chemicals: GRS imposes restrictions on the use of certain chemicals* in the production of recycled materials to reduce environmental and health risks.
• Transparency in the verification process: To ensure that the process for requesting GRS certification of various products is carried out correctly and transparently. Therefore, it requires verification from an independent and impartial third party.

Benefits of GRS certification

In addition to making products meet higher standards to build confidence among consumers, it is widely known that the world is waking up to the use of environmentally friendly products. Many countries are gradually starting to include products containing recycled materials as a legal requirement. Having products certified to GRS, a high standard that is widely accepted across the world, will enhance the ability to maintain and expand the market, as well as promote a good image for the product and organization.