How we work

Global Standards gGmbH develops, implements and promotes Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) for the textile sector. Our work is overseen by the Global Standards Foundation, ensuring independent governance and the long-term integrity of our standards. Our organisation maintains a flat structure, minimises administrative costs, is self-financed and uses any inflow to reach our vision and mission.   

Developing and implementing standards 

 We establish strict and binding requirements for organic and responsible materials, chemical inputs, environmental performance and labour and human rights conditions. Our VSS are dynamic; we foster constant progress towards the development of better textile processing methods through collaboration with international stakeholders, including the textile industry, chemical suppliers, sustainable fibre production and environmental organisations, regulators, workers' rights groups, labour unions and other stakeholders. Continuous revisions, along with monitoring and evaluation ensure our standards remain effective, implementable and aligned with evolving sustainability challenges. 

Verification 

 Selected independent Certification Bodies audit companies at every stage of the supply chain through regular on-site inspections, verifying compliance with our standards. 

Protecting credibility 

To further protect the credibility of our VSS, we investigate and impose sanctions whenever there is evidence of misleading use of our labels, references to certification and fraud. 

Promoting global adoption 

Our standards provide a consistent global framework that helps businesses navigate regulatory requirements, overcome barriers to international trade and implement responsible practices along their supply-chain, while offering consumers credible assurance. Through our international network of global representatives, we expand our impact and contribute to sustainable development in the industry worldwide.