Our series on certification continues... Bluesign from bluesignTM Technologies ag is to put simply a set of standards which covers the entire chain of textile production. It covers all the stakeholders from the manufacturers of raw material, the component manufacturers to the ultimate consumers, it covers the entire production process chain in the textile industry. The company itself defines the standard as, “The declared objective of the independent bluesign® standard is to put a reliable and proactive tool at the disposal of the entire textile production chain - from raw material and component suppliers who manufacture e.g. yarns, dyes and additives, to textile manufacturers, to retailer and brand companies to consumers.” As Peter Waeber, CEO puts it on their website, “Production processes that are designed around maximum resource productivity with a view to environmental protection, health and safety, represent an assurance for manufacturers and retailers that today's quality ...
In a similar vein, to provide a distinct identity to crafts handmade in India whether it is products, accessories or fabrics, AIACA – (All India Artisan and Craftworkers Welfare Association) has launched the craft mark. AIACA licences the craftmark to businesses, NGOs, Self Help Groups and Cooperatives for use on its products, tickets or labels. The biggest advantage of having a craftmark is that it is a distinguishes between products which are machine made. It also sees to it that the consumer is not conned into buying a machine made product as a handmade product. Broadly, Craftmark certifies or stands for the fact that the product has been made without the use of child labour and the guarantees the hand made process of the craft. The Craftmark has its own developed system of rating and standards. It has also compiled processes as used in the various craft in the country be it Kalamkari, Sujni, Mangalgiri weaving or tie and dye. Craftmark also organizes symposiums, workshops, has stor...