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TECHNICAL UPDATE - INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR ORGANIC TEXTILES - GOTS

    The International Standard - GOTS The first global standard for certification of organic textiles which is well known and equally popular is GOTS – the acronym for Global Organic Textile Standards. The focus of the standard is to have a global recognized requirement to ensure organic status of textiles. It covers the process from harvesting of raw materials to the labeling to reach the end consumer. The harvesting has to be done using environmentally and socially responsible means as also the manufacturing. Such a certification ensures that textile processors and manufacturers will be able to export their organic fabrics, apparel, garments and textiles under one certification across the globe. The certification will be accepted in all the major markets. And it will stand for ethical manufacturing and the end product is organically certified.  The standard is applicable to textiles made from using at least 70% certified organic natural fibres. It covers processing, m...

TECHNICAL UPDATE -CRAFTMARK


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 stores which stock its products and participates in exhibitions abroad. This also benefits the organization which has the craftmark and is producing products which can be sold under its mark. With some of the leading names in the craft world on its panel and support from some top names in this industry, craftmark is making its mark felt.

(More information refer to www.craftmark.org



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