Oeko-Tex launches new sustainable textile certification

The International Oeko-Tex Association has added a new certification system to its portfolio of sustainable textile certifications. Dubbed as the Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex, the new verification procedure allows manufacturers of textile processing chemicals, including dyes, performance additives, finishing agents, lubricants and detergents, to confirm if their products can be used in sustainable textile production. Full implementation is set on early summer this year.

The Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex involves three stages of assessment. The results from each level of evaluation are given to the applicants, allowing them to use the data to check internal QC and occupational guidelines, and reformulate if necessary to meet sustainability requirements.

The first step involves disclosure of the chemical substances used in the manufacturers' formulations, which are compared against the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and SteP by Oeko-Tex Manufacturing restricted substance lists. Each ingredient is then evaluated against 22 health and environmental criteria to assess its health and safety risks. Finally, an analytical verification is conducted to ensure that the products do not contain contaminants.

Products that pass all three phases are granted Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex ceritification, indicating that they are safe to use in Oeko-Tex Standard 100-certified textile products and in STeP by Oeko-Tex-ceritified factories.

"Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex-certified chemicals increase textile product and process safety, and help protect consumers, textile industry workers, and the environment from the negative impact of potentially harmful substances. Furthermore, the addition of Eco Passport by Oeko-Tex to the Oeko-Tex portfolio promotes comprehensive stewardship of textile products and processes throughout the supply chain," the association said in a press release.

Oeko-Tex and its 16-member institutes worldwide will be hosting webinars and other learning opportunities to ensure that clients are aware of the new certification system, and the benefits the program offers for the textile chemical manufacturers, consumers and supply chain.

View a comparison table of textile chemical suppliers on GlobalSources.com