Natural fibres

GLOBAL ORGANIC TEXTILE STANDARD (GOTS)

GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standard and is a recognized and particularly demanding standard in the textile industry worldwide. Strict guidelines apply throughout the entire manufacturing process for ecological and socially responsible textile production, compliance with which is regularly monitored by independent auditing bodies. Key criteria for the seal include the use of certified organic natural fibers, the avoidance of pesticides during cultivation, the improvement of living and working conditions for people along the entire production chain, compliance with chemical limit values, as well as transparency and traceability.

Natural fibres

GLOBAL ORGANIC TEXTILE STANDARD “ORGANIC IN CONVERSION” LABEL

Items whose cotton content is certified according to the Global Organic Textile Standard 'Organic - In Conversion' are made from cotton grown on fields that are in the process of converting from conventional to organic farming. This process typically takes three years and, through the transition to organic and therefore more resource-efficient cultivation methods, has positive effects on farmers' health, soil health, and the protection of biodiversity in the growing regions. In addition to the ecological benefits, farmers benefit from financial advantages under the standard (such as purchase premiums), as they are not required to sell their cotton on the purely conventional market. The conversion process is monitored by independent certification bodies. Separate storage and processing from conventional cotton is ensured throughout the entire supply chain. By using 'Organic - In Conversion' fibers, we aim to support even more farmers on their path towards organic farming.

Natural fibres

ORGANIC CONTENT STANDARD (OCS)

The Organic Content Standard (OCS) certifies the exact proportion of organically produced materials in a product. To ensure reliable traceability, every stage of production along the supply chain is independently monitored. An item bearing the OCS 100 seal consists, based on its textile fiber content, of at least 95 percent certified organically grown materials. At Ernsting's family, we primarily use this seal, as the majority of our OCS items meet this requirement. The OCS Blended seal indicates that an item consists in part (at least 5 percent) of organically grown fibers, which may be blended with other fiber types. For these items too, Ernsting's family ensures that the cotton content is made entirely of certified organic cotton.

Natural fibres

COTTON MADE IN AFRICA (CMIA) – HELPING OTHERS TO HELP THEMSELVES

We support the Cotton made in Africa® initiative, which advocates for better working and living conditions for smallholder farmers and for workers in ginneries. The initiative takes ecological and social criteria into account. Rather than collecting donations, it follows the principle of self-help through trade: we source CmiA-verified cotton and use the CmiA label in exchange for a license fee. Cotton made in Africa® reinvests the revenue from licenses in its project regions in Sub-Saharan Africa. This provides cotton farmers with, for example, agricultural and business training. The knowledge gained helps them grow cotton more efficiently, apply improved cultivation methods, and manage their farms profitably. https://www.aidbytrade.org/en/support/. An initiative of the Aid by Trade Foundation.

Natural fibres

FAIRTRADE - FAIR BY CONVICTION

Fairtrade is committed to better working and living conditions for smallholder cotton farmers and workers in producing countries. The Fairtrade seal stands for strict social and environmental standards. We are pleased that, through those of our items made from Fairtrade-certified cotton, we support cotton farmers on the ground - for example, through the stable incomes, support programs, and community projects anchored in the standard. By focusing on more resource-efficient cultivation methods in line with Fairtrade criteria, an active contribution is also made to protecting natural resources.

Natural fibres

FUR FREE RETAILER

We refrain from using real fur without exception. Where we embellish our items with faux fur or synthetic fur, our suppliers are contractually obligated not to use real fur. This is in line with our status as an official member of the 'Fur Free Retailer' program, which is represented in Germany by the animal welfare organization VIER PFOTEN. We remain committed to this practice out of conviction going forward.

Natural fibres

RESPONSIBLE DOWN STANDARD (RDS)

The initiative is committed to improving the living conditions of the geese from which we source our down. Through independent audits, the standard ensures that processed down originates from transparent supply chains and consistently excludes practices such as live-plucking and force-feeding. The RDS seal of the Responsible Down Standard certifies the down filling in all of our clothing items containing down.

Natural fibres

RESPONSIBLE WOOL STANDARD (RWS)

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) is a global standard designed to protect sheep and the land on which they graze. Among other things, the standard ensures that the animals have access to clean drinking water, sufficient food, and adequate fresh air at all times. It also sets strict requirements for protection against cold, heat, stress, pain, injury, and illness. This is reflected, among other things, in a strict prohibition of the mulesing procedure. Working conditions as well as the health and safety of workers are also reviewed along the entire supply chain by independent certification bodies. Products whose wool content meets the RWS requirements may carry the RWS logo.