What is ethical manufacturing certification? This is an accreditation system that ensures that a factory’s practices are in accordance with international labor standards and principles, including human rights. Many organizations, including the World Responsible Accreditation Program, have standardized their standards and ranked companies by their performance. They are an important resource for ethical fashion brands. This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a good starting point for researching ethical manufacturing. A key question to ask yourself is “is ethical manufacturing certification important?”
First, if your company produces products in China, you should look for the ETHICS-certified label. Most ethical brands are small and self-funded, and cannot afford to undergo expensive ethical manufacturing certification. Nonetheless, you can help the environment by sharing information about the factories you do business with, such as social media posts and website updates. Also, check that the company offers fair wages to its workers, has contractual agreements with them, and adheres to sustainable practices.
Third, check the material of the product. Cradle to cradle certification looks at the organic health of garment materials, as well as the water efficiency and renewable energy used during the manufacturing process. This certification is another sign of solid ethical manufacturing practices. Better Work also works to help national stakeholders take a more prominent role in the labor market. And, finally, look for the Better Work logo on your products. This logo is a sign of quality, as it is an important indicator of ethical manufacturing.
Third, look for the Nest Seal of Ethical Handcraft. This seal ensures that the product was produced under fair conditions. It must also use biodegradable dyes and low impact water treatment systems. Lastly, it should also be free of toxic chemicals. The Nest Seal of Ethical Handcraft is the most respected organic textile certification in the world. If you’re interested in shopping for ethically produced clothes and accessories, try to choose a brand that has the Nest Seal of Ethical Handcraft.
Third-party organizations have verified that ethical companies are using fair labour practices and are putting people first. These third-party organizations also examine the conditions of workers. For example, the Fair Wear Foundation verifies that the company provides equal opportunity to all its workers, a fair living wage, and a safe working environment. They also require companies to trace their materials and use responsible chemicals. The Global Recycle Standard is the most rigorous and transparent. But, it’s not the only certification system.
A third certification system has been developed with the intention of defending the rights of factory employees. The Organic Content Standard Certification verifies that the product contains some form of organic material as one of its constituents. Additionally, it safeguards the rights of workers in global supply chains.
Last but not least, we have the B Corporation. B Corporations are businesses that operate in a manner that is both socially and environmentally responsible. They create a powerful collective brand while also institutionalising the interests of the stakeholders. It is important to keep in mind that not all businesses are able to adhere to the standards.