The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary, and comprehensive certification standard for products made with recycled content. The GRS aims to increase the use of recycled materials in products and reduce the environmental impact of production.
The GRS certification verifies that products contain a minimum of 20% recycled content and that the product and its manufacturing process meet certain environmental and social criteria. The certification covers the entire supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to the final product, and includes criteria such as traceability, chemical restrictions, environmental performance, social responsibility, and labeling.
The GRS is managed by Textile Exchange, a non-profit organization that aims to accelerate sustainable practices in the textile industry. While the GRS was originally developed for the textile industry, it has since been expanded to other sectors, including plastics, packaging, and building materials.
To get the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, a company needs to follow a series of steps and meet specific requirements. Here is an overview of the general process:
Review the GRS requirements: Before applying for certification, it's important to understand the GRS requirements and determine whether your company is eligible. The GRS requirements cover a range of areas, including traceability, environmental performance, chemical restrictions, and social responsibility.
Implement GRS requirements: If your company is eligible, you'll need to implement the GRS requirements in your production process. This may involve making changes to your supply chain, sourcing recycled materials, and establishing systems to track and verify the recycled content of your products.
Apply for certification: Once you've implemented the GRS requirements, you can apply for certification. This involves submitting an application and providing documentation to demonstrate compliance with the GRS requirements. The certification process typically includes an audit of your production facilities and supply chain.
Receive certification: If your company meets the GRS requirements, you'll receive certification. This certification will allow you to use the GRS logo on your products and marketing materials to demonstrate to customers and stakeholders that your products meet certain environmental and social standards.
The specific steps and requirements for obtaining GRS certification can vary depending on your industry and product. It's important to consult with the GRS certification body and/or a consultant with experience in obtaining GRS certification to ensure that you follow the correct procedures and meet all the requirements.
