Ecological and Recycled Textile Standard - ERTS
The Ecological and Recycled Textile Standard (ERTS) is a certification developed by Ecocert, a renowned certification body with expertise in auditing and certifying sustainable practices for nearly 30 years. Ecocert operates in France and over 130 countries, making it a global leader in sustainable certification.
The primary objective of the ERTS is to promote environmentally and socially responsible production practices in the clothing and textile industry. It sets out minimum requirements for ecological standards throughout the entire lifecycle of textile products, from design and raw material production to manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life.
The ERTS certification applies to textiles and textile-based products that fall within the scope of Regulation (EU) No.1007/2011 of the European Parliament and Council. It encompasses products made primarily from natural fibers, renewable materials, or recycled materials. The standard covers criteria related to the environment, waste management, emissions, and social aspects, ensuring a comprehensive approach to sustainability.
To obtain the ERTS certification, operators must conduct an assessment of their major environmental impacts and develop a written environmental policy. This policy should include key elements such as the responsible person overseeing the policy, procedures for monitoring and reducing waste, emissions, water consumption, and energy usage, as well as protocols for addressing incidents related to waste and pollution.
Furthermore, operators are required to establish an improvement program with measurable goals to continuously enhance their environmental performance. This may involve targets for reducing water consumption, energy use, and transitioning to green energy sources.
By obtaining the ERTS certification, textile operators demonstrate their commitment to environmentally responsible practices and contribute to a more sustainable textile industry. The certification provides assurance to consumers that certified products have met rigorous ecological and social criteria, enabling them to make more informed and sustainable purchasing decisions.
For more detailed information on the specific requirements and processes associated with the ERTS certification, it is advisable to consult Ecocert or the official documentation related to the standard.