Switzerland based Oeko-Tex Association presents a new certification for textiles proven to be safe in terms of human ecology and that are additionally produced in a sustainable and socially responsible manner, with a product label Made in Green by Oeko-Tex.

The label replaces the previous certification system Oeko-Tex Standard 100plus and the Spanish mark Made in Green by Aitex.

The latter is already used by several companies, of which Mango is the most well-known fashion brand, which use it to distinguish their products. After taking over the name rights, Oeko-Tex and its 16 member institutes are, from now on, the exclusive issuers of the new Made in Green label.

Perfect tool for communicating

“As a logical enhancement of our product portfolio, the Made in Green by Oeko-Tex label offers companies in the textile industry the perfect tool for communicating to the consumer their commitment to sustainability directly on the product,” commented Dr Jean-Pierre Haug, Oeko-Tex General Secretary.

With the STeP by Oeko-Tex certification, brand suppliers, manufacturers and retailers since last year have been able to have their production plants assessed, analysed and audited by the Oeko-Tex institutes with regard to sustainable production conditions.

Complete up-to-date package

As a logical enhancement to this, Oeko-Tex recently also developed MySTeP database which enables the central administration of existing Oeko-Tex certificates and optimum management of the complete supply chain with regard to sustainable key performance indicators (KPIs).

With the established Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and the latest range of Oeko-Tex services, the textile and clothing industry now has at its disposal a complete up-to-date package, which can specifically support companies on their path to improved product safety and sustainability, the Association reports.

Added value

“The basic difference and added value when compared with its predecessors is in the transparency of the new Made in Green by Oeko-Tex label for the consumers,” explained Dr Haug.

Using the given test number and a QR code, the textiles and the manufacturing process can be tracked. Other prerequisites apply for the allocation of the Made in Green by Oeko-Tex label than for the Oeko-Tex Standard 100plus and Made in Green by Aitex.

“We understand that not all companies can meet the requirements for the new product certification Made in Green by Oeko-Tex straight away. In spite of this, the Oeko-Tex Association cannot relax the defined requirements under any circumstances. However, we offer all companies the best possible support in the implementation of the necessary prerequisites,” said Dr Haug.

www.oeko-tex.com