Standards Policy & Resource Updates

Publication date: September 24, 2026

Effective date: September 24, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

Textile Exchange is releasing a Commitment & Sourcing Claims Policy on September 24, 2026, in advance of the mandatory date of the Empowering Consumer Directive (ECD) on September 27, 2026. Commitment and sourcing claims are important to stakeholders and are commonly used in annual sustainability reporting. The policy takes a proportionate and flexible approach and encourages claims makers to consult their own legal counsel when determining their organization’s need for alignment or compliance with relevant legislation.

Who is it for

All claim makers who wish to make commitment and sourcing claims, particularly brands and retailers. Both certified and non-certified organizations may make these claims.

• Certified organizations that hold a valid scope certificate (SC) for the applicable standard(s) and have signed a Trademark License Agreement (TLA).
• Some non-certified organizations may be required to sign a promotional license agreement (PLA) before making these claims.

What's included

The policy outlines applicable principles and criteria for making commitment and sourcing claims that reference Textile Exchange standards.

• Commitment claims are claims about an organization's planned efforts, goals, or targets throughout a defined period of time. These were formerly known as a corporate commitment claim in our Standards Claims Policy (TE-301).
• Sourcing claims are claims about an organization's achieved material sourcing volumes over a defined period of time. They were formerly known as a progress claims.

What's changed

The previous Standards Claims Policy (TE-301) had set out language options for these claim types. In alignment with stakeholder feedback, the new policy sets minimum information requirements instead, with examples of recommended language.

Key recommendations

Third party verification of commitment and sourcing claims, particularly:

• Implementation plans: Use and verification of implementation plans to support commitment claims.
• Substantiation of sourcing volumes: Maintaining verified, publicly available documentation substantiating volume data to support sourcing claims.
• The policy indicates where verification of the information supporting the claims and corresponding documentation may be necessary to meet applicable legal requirements.

Approval of claims by certification bodies

• Certified organizations should have claims approved by their CB before use. Claims by non-certified organizations do not require approval at this time, but Textile Exchange will monitor them for conformity with the policy.

For all details, refer to TE-TXL-POL-303 Commitment and Sourcing Claims Policy.

Publication date: September 1, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

The Materials Matter Standard introduces a new set of requirements focused specifically on Human Rights and Livelihoods, designed to make human rights due diligence practical and achievable for organizations of different sizes, reflecting differences in resources, operating contexts, and levels of risk, while maintaining a clear responsibility to respect human rights.

What's included

The Human Rights Policy and Code of Conduct Template provides two optional templates to support organizations implementing criteria 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of Principle 2 of the Materials Matter Standard.

• The Human Rights Policy Template supports organizations in implementing criterion 2.1.1 by communicating their commitment to respecting all human rights.
• The Code of Conduct Template supports organizations in implementing criterion 2.1.2 by translating the organization's human rights policy into practical expectations and behaviors for workers, managers, contractors, suppliers, and other business partners.

How it helps you

• The templates provide organizations with a practical starting point for developing and communicating their human rights commitments and expectations.
• Small and medium-sized farms are not required to maintain a written policy or code of conduct but may use these templates to help develop and communicate their human rights commitments. Group managers, large farms, small processing facilities, and large processing facilities are required to implement a written human rights policy and code of conduct.
• This supports a proportionate approach to implementation, adapting to how due diligence is carried out depending on the size, capacity, and context of the organization, without lowering the expectation to respect human rights.

For full details, refer to TE-MM-TEM-111 Human Rights Policy and Code of Conduct Template.

Publication date: September 1, 2026

The Materials Matter Standard introduces a new set of requirements focused specifically on Human Rights and Livelihoods, designed to make human rights due diligence practical and achievable for organizations of different sizes. The requirements reflect differences in resources, operating contexts, and levels of risk, while maintaining a clear responsibility to respect human rights.

What's included

The Human Rights and Livelihoods Quick Guide provides an introduction to the Human Rights and Livelihoods requirements, helping stakeholders understand the themes covered, the approach to implementation, and outlines the supporting guidance and tools available to certified organizations.

How it helps you

The Quick Guide helps standard users understand the Human Rights and Livelihoods requirements at Tier 4, including the human rights due diligence approach, how the requirements are applied across different types of certified organizations, and the guidance and tools available to support implementation.

For full details, refer to the TE-MM-GUI-603 Human Rights & Livelihoods Quick Guide.

Publication date: September 1, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

The Materials Matter Standard introduces a new set of requirements focused specifically on Human Rights and Livelihoods, designed to make human rights due diligence practical and achievable for organizations of different sizes. Textile Exchange is releasing supporting resources to help organizations move from understanding the requirements to putting them into practice.

What's included

• This tool supports organizations in identifying, assessing, and prioritizing actual and potential human rights risks associated with their operations and relevant business relationships.
• The tool supports implementation of Criterion 2.1.3 of the Materials Matter Standard, which requires applicable organizations to identify, assess, and prioritize human rights risks based on their severity and likelihood.
• The tool supports an existing Materials Matter criterion - it does not introduce an additional conformance requirement.

Why it matters

• The tool provides organizations with a structured approach to identifying where human rights risks may occur, prioritizing the most significant risks, and taking appropriate action to prevent or mitigate potential harm over time.

Who is it intended for

• The use of this assessment tool is required for large farms, farm group managers, and small and large processing facilities.
• For small and medium farms, a human rights risk assessment is still required, but use of the assessment tool is recommended rather than mandatory. These organizations may carry out a simpler, more informal risk assessment appropriate to their context.
• For farm groups, the group manager conducts group-level assessment and informs group members of the results. Individual farm group members are not required to complete the tool themselves.
• Applicable organizations complete the tool as part of implementing Criterion 2.1.3, and the assessment is reviewed by their certification body as part of the audit process.

For full details, refer to the TE-MM-TEM-113 Human Rights Risk Assessment Tool.

Publication date: September 1, 2026

Effective date: October 1, 2026

Minor updates have been made to the Standard-Specific Details (TE-TXL-POL-204). The document includes details specific to each Textile Exchange standard that are relevant for the issuance of Scope Certificates (SCs) and Transaction Certificates (TCs). It is intended to be used alongside the Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203).

What's changing

The document has undergone a minor revision, including a clarification of the applicability of the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy, added guidance on transition claims and Transaction Certificate (TC) shipping details, examples of audit criteria, and a correction to mixing requirements under the GRS claims category. All updates are outlined in Appendix A: Change Log.

For full details, refer to the TE-TXL-POL-204 Standard-Specific Details.

Publication date: September 1, 2026

Effective date: September 1, 2026

Mandatory date: December 1, 2026

An interpretation gap has been identified where pre-dyed recycled fibers, such as dope-and spun-dyed fibers, have been declared as undyed yarns or fabrics, causing inconsistent application across the supply chain.

What's changing

This calibration establishes classification requirements for dyed or undyed fibers, applying to all plant, cellulosic, and synthetic fibers, yarns, fabrics, and finished textile products across certified supply chains.

• PC0033 – Dyed Fiber: Any fiber where dyes or pigments have been intentionally applied for the purpose of coloration at any stage of the textile supply chain, including dope dyeing, stock dyeing, yarn dyeing, piece dyeing, and garment dyeing.
• PC0034 – Undyed Fiber: Any fiber where no intentional application of dyes or pigments for the purpose of coloration has occurred, including:
  • Greige (raw/undyed) fibers
  • Fibers treated solely with delustrants such as titanium dioxide (TiO₂)
  • Fibers incorporating functional additives, provided these additives are not used for aesthetic coloration, such as ceramic particles, charcoal, silver coatings or silver ions, or other non-colorant functional masterbatches or additives commonly used in fiber production, such as UV stabilizers or absorbers (to enhance light/UV resistance), flame retardants (for fire safety compliance), and antistatic agents (to reduce static buildup), etc.
  • Fibers may exhibit inherent color variations due to raw material origin or production method, but are not to be considered dyed, alongside fibers that were dyed before they were reclaimed.

Once classified as PC0033, this designation should remain throughout all subsequent processing stages, unless formally reclassified.

TThis is a summary of Calibration 300. For full details, refer to the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221).

Publication date: September 1, 2026

Effective date: September 1, 2026

Mandatory date: December 1, 2026

Some facilities with on-site wastewater treatment may face challenges obtaining GRS certification when their wastewater test results exceed the permitted limits outlined in the ZDHC Wastewater Guidelines. This calibration acknowledges that in some instances the incoming/inlet water may be the source of contamination and offers an alternative approach to demonstrate conformance in these circumstances.

What's changing

Certified organizations must conduct a root cause analysis (RCA) to identify the source of the irregularities in the wastewater limit. Depending on what the RCA finds, the following applies:

• If inlet water has been identified as the primary cause of why the wastewater limits have been exceeded, the certified organization must submit the RCA to their certification body (CB). As this is an allowed circumstance beyond the facility's control, GRS certification may still be obtained.
• If chemicals or other sources have been identified as the primary cause, the CB must raise a nonconformity. Certification can only be achieved once the nonconformity has been closed.

For full details, refer to the TE-TXL-LOG-221 Calibrations Log.

Publication date: September 15, 2026

Effective date: October 1, 2026

Mandatory date: April 1, 2027

The TE-TRK-TEM-101 Farm Production Form (FPF) is used to add farm inputs to the Trackit™ platform. It captures key information in a structured format, including certified material, material composition, geographic origin, and lot number.

Who is it intended for

Certification bodies (CBs) submitting farm production data on behalf of certified organizations.

What's included

• CBs must submit an FPF only for certified organizations where farm-level production is eligible for sale as certified under the applicable standard.
• CBs are not required to include production they know will be or has been damaged, destroyed, sold as non-certified, or sold under another Scope Certificate (SC).
• CBs must submit the FPF before any certified material is used as input on an outgoing Transaction Certificate (TC).

What's changed

Version 1.1 includes minor updates, including new raw material codes for the Materials Matter Standard. Previous versions of the form are no longer accepted in data submissions. See Appendix A for the full change log.

Why it matters

Standardized data improve consistency, simplify processing, and support the traceability of farm inputs from source to final products.

For full details, refer to

TE-TRK-TEM-101 Farm Production Form.

Publication date: September 15, 2026

The TE-MM-TEM-117 Emergency Plan Template supports the implementation of the applicable animal welfare criteria of the TE-MM-STN-101 Materials Matter Standard. It provides a structured approach to preparing for and responding to emergencies that may affect animals, people, infrastructure, or farm operations.

Who is it intended for

This template is intended for farms and other relevant certified organizations responsible for the care and management of sheep, goats, or alpacas.

How it helps you

• It provides a structured format for documenting key farm information, emergency contacts, potential hazards and their likelihood, existing controls, immediate emergency response actions, and animal welfare priorities.
• Farms should adapt the plan to their circumstances, such as their size, species, production system, infrastructure, and local emergency risks. They should also review and update it periodically, so it remains relevant and effective.

Why it matters

The template helps organizations identify risks relevant to their location and operations, and plan appropriate actions before an emergency occurs.

For full details, refer to TE-MM-TEM-117 Emergency Plan Template (Sheep, Goats, Alpacas).

Publication date: September 15, 2026

The TE-MM-TEM-118 Transport-Associated Injuries and Deaths Records Template supports the implementation of the applicable animal welfare criteria of the TE-MM-STN-101 Materials Matter Standard. It provides a consistent way to document and monitor injuries and deaths associated with animal transport.

Who is it intended for

This template is intended for farms and other relevant certified organization responsible for transporting animals.

How it helps you

It provides a structured format for recording transport details, the number of animals transported, the number of injuries and deaths, injury and death rates, identified root cause, and actions taken to prevent recurrence.

Why it matters

A practical and consistent approach to record keeping helps organizations identify trends and opportunities for improvements. Tracking injury and death rates over time helps identify when rates exceed applicable thresholds or show an increasing trend, enabling timely investigation and corrective action to reduce future occurrences.

For full details, refer to TE-MM-TEM-118 Transport-Associated Injuries and Deaths Records Template (Sheep, Goats, Alpacas).

Publication date: September 15, 2026

The TE-MM-TEM-116 Shearing Injury Records Template supports the implementation of the applicable animal welfare criteria of the TE-MM-STN-101 Materials Matter Standard. It provides a consistent method to document serious injuries that occur during shearing, as defined in the template.

Who it is intended for

This template is intended for farms and other relevant certified organization responsible for shearing sheep, goats, or alpaca.

How it helps you

It provides a structured format for recording the shearing period, the number of animals sheared, details of individual injuries, the person conducting the shearing, the treatment provided, follow-up wounds checks, and any relevant comments. These records can help identify recurring root causes and opportunities for long-term improvements.

Why it matters

A practical and consistent approach to record keeping helps organizations maintain the information needed to demonstrate conformity with the Materials Matter Standard.

For full details, refer to Appendix A of the TE-MM-TEM-116 Shearing Injury Records Template (Sheep, Goats, Alpacas).

Original publication date (English version): April 1, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

Translation publication date: August 20, 2026

Textile Exchange has published a Chinese translation of the TE-MM-POL-101 Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy. This policy provides organizations with clear criteria on material eligibility, certification scope, minimum certification thresholds, certification options, and the specific responsibilities of becoming certified.

The policy applies to organizations seeking certification to the Materials Matter Standard, as well as those certifying to the Content Claim Standard (CCS) to track Materials Matter Certified materials through the supply chain.

Chinese version

TE-MM-POL-101 Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy–Chinese (中文)

English version

TE-MM-POL-101 Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy

These join previously published translations available in the Knowledge Center.

Original publication date (English Version): April 1, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

Translation publication date: August 20, 2026

Textile Exchange has published a Chinese translation of the TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy. This policy gives certified organizations a clear understanding of the actions they must take to move from Textile Exchange’s existing suite of standards to the Materials Matter Standard. It provides a structured pathway for organizations across the supply chain to transition certification while maintaining continuity during a multi-year transition period.

Chinese version

TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy – Chinese (中文)

English version

TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy

These join previously published translations available in the Knowledge Center.

Publication date (English Version): August 6, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

Mandatory date: December 31, 2027

The Materials Matter Criteria for Certification Bodies sets out the requirements certification bodies must meet to deliver certification under the standard. 

What's changing

Building Expertise

• The policy introduces new roles, such as subject matter experts and chemical assessment specialists, and establishes clearer competency expectations for certification bodies, including expanded audit team competencies.

Risk-Based Approach to Assurance

• The Materials Matter Risk and Sampling Criteria and Tools works alongside the Materials Matter Criteria for Certification Bodies to embed risk-based approaches throughout the certification process.
• Rather than applying the same level of assurance across all production systems and criteria, certification effort is directed to areas of greatest risk.
• Risk assessments are required as a pre-audit step to directly inform audit planning, auditor competencies, farm visits, reclaimed material verification, surveillance activities, and other assurance decisions.

Driving Consistency Across Certification

• The policy establishes a more consistent approach to how certification is planned, conducted, and managed by setting requirements for audit planning, audit durations, team composition, worker interviews, farm surveys, remote document review, and certification decisions.

Strengthening Oversight

• The policy introduces clearer requirements for how certification activities are managed and overseen, including standardized certification decisions, management of critical non-conformities, certification body communication requirements, submission of audit data to Textile Exchange, and strengthened oversight for farm group certification and group management systems.

Why it matters

This policy builds on the existing certification procedures, updating them to reflect the Materials Matter Standard and strengthen the assurance system by providing a common framework for consistent and credible certification.

How it helps you

The policy provides certified organizations with greater transparency around what to expect during the audit process, the qualifications and competencies certification body personnel are required to maintain, and the risk-based approach introduced through the Materials Matter Standard. This helps organizations better understand the certification process and provides confidence that all certified organizations are assessed against the same expectations.

For full details, refer to

Materials Matter Criteria for Certification Bodies (TE-MM-POL-201).

Publication date: August 6, 2026

Effective date: December 31, 2026

Mandatory date: December 31, 2027

The Materials Matter Risk and Sampling Criteria and Tools Policy outlines the methodology certification bodies (CBs) must use when assessing risk, planning audits, and determining sampling requirements under the Materials Matter Standard.

What's included

Risk Assessment Framework & Updated Methodology

• The policy establishes a standardized framework for assessing organizational and farm-level risk and determining how certification activities are planned and delivered under the Materials Matter Standard (MMS).
• To support consistent implementation, the Human Rights & Livelihoods Risk Assessment, Farm Risk Assessment, and Reclaimed Material Supplier Risk Assessment have been consolidated into a suite of supporting tools used by certification bodies.

Human Rights & Livelihoods Risk Assessment

• The policy introduces a Human Rights & Livelihoods Risk Assessment for all Tier 4 organizations being evaluated against the MMS. Certification Bodies assess a range of organizational-level risk indicators, including previous non-conformities and other relevant contextual information, to inform audit planning and assurance activities.
• The Farm Risk Assessment evaluates factors that influence certification risk at the farm level and informs audit planning, sampling requirements, and other assurance decisions across different farm types and production systems.
• The overall methodology remains largely consistent with the existing Responsible Animal Fibers (RAF) approach, with targeted refinements to align with the MMS.

Reclaimed Material Supplier Verification

• The policy introduces a risk-based approach to verifying non-certified reclaimed material suppliers.
• CBs are required to verify reclaimed material suppliers annually based on their assessed risk level, calculated at the certification body level rather than per recycler:
  • 20% of high-risk suppliers
  • 10% of medium-risk suppliers (and 10% overall)
  • 2% of low-risk suppliers
• Verification focuses on confirming the authenticity and accuracy of the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF), including risks relating to segregation and substitution.

Why it matters

A common risk assessment framework and standardized sampling methodology help CBs assess risk consistently while ensuring assurance activities remain proportionate to an organization's operations, production systems, and certification scope.

How it helps you

This policy provides greater transparency into how certification activities are planned and delivered. By explaining how risk informs audit planning and sampling, it helps organizations better prepare for audits, identify opportunities to strengthen their management systems, and reduce certification risk over time.

For full details, refer to the Materials Matter Risk and Sampling Criteria and Tools (TE-MM-POL-202).

Publication date: August 3, 2026

Effective date:August 3, 2026

Calibration 305 clarifies how Textile Exchange Standard logos - including the color, black, and grayscale versions - may be used on different background, providing greater flexibility for claim makers when applying logos to transparent backgrounds.

What's changing

All approved colors of the Textile Exchange Standard logos may be used with transparent backgrounds, provided that the background the logo is applied to has sufficient contrast for clear visibility.

For full details, refer to the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221).

First version published: July 1, 2025

Publication date: August 3, 2026

Effective date: August 3, 2026

Mandatory date: August 3, 2026

Minor updates have been made to the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF), V2026.2.

What's changing

• A mandatory date has been added to the RMDF, with a note clarifying that use of the RMDF is required when the Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203-V4.0) is used (effective from October 1, 2026 onward).
• Language has been updated from "should/may" to "shall" in most places, reflecting a shift from recommendations to binding requirements.
• References to the Materials Matter Standard and the Materials Matter Scope & Eligibility Policy have been added at relevant places.
• Product Detail (PD) code PD0098 (Process waste) has been removed from the feedstock picklist.
• PD codes for reclaimed textiles and popcorn have been reorganized across relevant Product Category (PC) picklists for better clarity.
• A new note has been added under criterion 1.2.20 (Reclaimed materials) with clarification on feedstock selection.

For full details, refer to Appendix A of the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (TE-MM-TEM-105).

Original publication date (English Version): April 1, 2026

Effective date (English Version): December 31, 2026

Translation publication date: July 1, 2026

Textile Exchange has published a Spanish translation of the TE-MM-POL-101 Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy. This policy provides organizations with clear criteria on material eligibility, certification scope, minimum certification thresholds, certification options, and the specific responsibilities of becoming certified.

The policy applies to organizations seeking certification to the Materials Matter Standard, as well as those certifying to the Content Claim Standard (CCS) to track Materials Matter Certified materials through the supply chain.

Spanish version:

TE-MM-POL-101 Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy – Spanish (Español) .

Original publication date (English Version): January 20, 2026

Translation publication date: June 22, 2026

Textile Exchange has published a Chinese translation of the TE-MM-STN-101E Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Recycled Materials. This document provides material-specific extracts of the Materials Matter Standard V1.0 and is intended to support consistent understanding and application of the standard requirements for stakeholders working with recycled materials.

Transition timeline

• December 12, 2025: Publication of the Materials Matter Standard.
• December 31, 2026: The standard becomes effective, meaning all Tier 4 organizations currently certified to Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), and Responsible Animal Fibers (RAF) standards may begin to be audited to the Materials Matter Standard or continue to be audited to the current standards. 
• December 31, 2027: The standard becomes mandatory, meaning the Materials Matter Standard is required for all eligible Tier 4 audits to maintain certification.

Chinese version:

TE-MM-STN-101E Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Recycled Materials – Chinese (中文).

Original publication date (English Version): April 1, 2026

Effective date:December 31, 2026

Translation publication date: July 1, 2026

Textile Exchange has published a Spanish translation of the TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy. This policy gives certified organizations a clear understanding of the actions they must take to move from Textile Exchange’s existing suite of standards to the Materials Matter Standard. It provides a structured pathway for organizations across the supply chain to transition certification while maintaining continuity during a multi-year transition period.

Spanish version:

TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy – Spanish (Español).

English version:

TE-MM-POL-102 Materials Matter Transition Policy.

Publish date: July 1, 2026

Effective date: July 1, 2026

The update from V3.0 to V3.1 clarifies the scope of the policy, particularly in relation to matters that fall outside the Standards System complaints process, to support the appropriate classification and handling of complaints submitted to Textile Exchange.

What's changing

Version 3.1 includes a number of updates to improve clarity and document structure. The main change is the clarification of matters that fall outside the scope of this policy, including matters subject to legal or trademark processes, legal disputes, matters unrelated to certification, and issues not appropriate for review through the Standards System complaints process. All changes are logged in Appendix A: Change log.

For all details, refer to:

TE-TXL-POL-206 Complaints Policy.

Publish date: July 1, 2026

Effective date: July 1, 2026

Mandatory date: December 31, 2026

Updates have been made to the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), and their respective Implementation Manuals to support improved tracking of reclaimed material throughout the certified recycling supply chain.
These updates align the standards with the revised Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF) and relevant calibrations, strengthening the collection and tracking of reclaimed material data while helping mitigate the risk of fraudulent reclaimed material claims. The revisions are limited to the changes required to support the updated RMDF and do not represent a broader revision of either standard.

What's changing

• Clarifies that certification applies to reclaimed material, which is considered equivalent to claimed material.
• Updates references throughout the standards and Implementation Manuals to align with the revised Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (TE-MM-TEM-105).
• Clarifies the role of the first certified entity within the recycling supply chain.
• Removes the previous Reclaimed Material Supplier Form and replaces it with the revised Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF).
• Includes minor editorial and reference updates, including contact details.

The revised Reclaimed Material Declaration Form becomes mandatory for GRS and RCS certifications from December 31, 2026.

For full details, refer to:

• Global Recycled Standard (GRS) Version 5.0.
• Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) Version 3.0.
• GRS-201 Global Recycled Standard Implementation Manual.
• RCS-201 Recycled Claim Standard Implementation Manual .

Publication date: July 1, 2026

Textile Exchange has published the Claims Policy Summary of Feedback (TE-MM-REP-301), which presents key feedback areas received during the open consultation on the draft Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy, published on December 12, 2025. It outlines how this input was considered alongside other key factors. While not all feedback resulted in changes, every submission was reviewed and helped inform the final approach.

What's included:

Clear overview of received feedback categorized by topic, including:

• Summary of what was heard during the consultation
• What was changed or brought into the final policy
• Considerations that were taken into account during the decision making process

Why it matters:

The development of the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy is grounded in Textile Exchange's commitment to integrity, relevance, and continuous improvement. This iterative and stakeholder informed approach helps our claims system remain relevant and practical for today's supply chain context.

How it helps you:

If you are unclear whether certain suggestions or areas of input were included in the new policy, or why certain feedback was implemented, this summary will be able to provide that clarity.

For full details, refer to Claims Policy Summary of Feedback.

Publication date: July 1, 2026

Textile Exchange has published the Mapping Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates to Previous Criteria (TE-TXL-GUI-204-V1.0). This document provides a mapping of the criteria from the previous versions of the Policy for Scope Certificates (ASR-103 v3.1) and the Policy for Transaction Certificates (ASR-104 v3.1) to the new Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203) published on April 1, 2026.

What's included:

This document is a detailed, line-by-line overview of criteria that were adapted, removed, or newly added in the new policy. More specifically, it includes:

• The criteria of the Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates in their existing order.
• A comparison between the relevant criterion in the v3.1 policy and the updated criterion in the new policy, along with the status (adapted, removed, new).

How it helps you:

The aim of this mapping is to support organizations already certified to existing standards. By reviewing the comparisons, certified organizations will gain early insights into the changes and shifts and be more prepared for the transition to the new policies.

For full details, refer to Mapping Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates to Previous Criteria.

Effective date: June 1, 2026

Mandatory date: September 1, 2026

Calibration 304 allows certified organizations to have Transaction Certificates (TCs) for products which are also certified to another standard for a different attribute, including attributes covered by Textile Exchange standards that do not apply to that specific product. It also clarifies how Certification Bodies (CBs) should document this on TCs to prevent double counting or overstatement of certified volumes.

Example: A product that is GOTS certified for organic content remains eligible for a TC for recycled content under the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). This applies even if Textile Exchange has its own standard for organic content, the Organic Content Standard (OCS).

The policy helps ensure that the transition to the Materials Matter System is clear, predictable, and manageable for all stakeholders.

What's changing

• A product may be certified to a Textile Exchange standard as well as a non-Textile Exchange standard for a different attribute. Certification under another scheme does not prevent TC applications from being accepted.
• When issuing a TC for such a product, CBs should reference the other standard's TC number (or the other standard) in Box 12 where possible, and ensure certified volumes are not double counted or duplicated across the different standards.
• On a Textile Exchange TC, only material certified under the applicable Textile Exchange standard may be claimed. Any other material - even if it holds certification - must be listed as non-claimed. See ASR-104-V3.1, A5.3 for details.

For all details related to Calibration 304, refer to the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221).

The Reclaimed Material Supplier Agreement is an updated template for certified organizations to use when entering into an agreement with their non-certified reclaimed material suppliers under the Materials Matter Standard.

Who's it for?

It is completed by the non-certified entity supplying reclaimed material to the first certified organization in the recycling supply chain, whether that is a collector, concentrator, or recycler.

Why it matters

• By signing, the supplier guarantees that all materials listed in the TE-MM-TEM-105 Reclaimed Material Declaration Form are reclaimed materials that would otherwise have entered the waste stream.
• The supplier grants the Certification Body (CB) permission for remote or on-site verification, in accordance with the TE-MM-POL-201 Materials Matter Criteria for Certification Bodies.

For all details, refer to TE-MM-TEM-106 Reclaimed Material Supplier Agreement.

Effective date: October 1, 2026

Mandatory date: April 1, 2027

The CCS Certification Procedures present normative criteria for certification bodies (CBs) and accreditation bodies which are specific to the Content Claim Standard (CCS). The updates from version 3.1 to version 3.2 of the CCS Certification Procedures reflects the launch of the Materials Matter Standard and the publication of three policy documents, including the TE-TXL-POL-201 General Criteria for Certification Bodies, TE-TXL-POL-202 General Criteria for Accreditation Bodies, and TE-TXL-POL-203 Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates.

What's changing?
Several sections previously located within the CCS Certification Procedures have been removed and can now be found in the new policy documents listed above.

For all details, refer to CCS-102 CCS Certification Procedures.

Effective: December 31, 2026

The Transition Policy gives certification holders a clear understanding of the actions they must take to move from Textile Exchange’s existing suite of standards to the Materials Matter Standard. It provides a structured pathway for organizations across the supply chain to transition certification while maintaining continuity during a multi-year transition period.

The policy helps ensure that the transition to the Materials Matter System is clear, predictable, and manageable for all stakeholders.

What's included

• Transition timelines and key milestones.
• How existing certifications remain valid during the transition period, provided ongoing conformance to the applicable standard is maintained.
• Requirements for certification bodies, accreditation bodies, and certified organizations.
• How claims and labeling transition to the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy.

For full details, refer to the Materials Matter Transition Policy (TE-MM-POL-102) .

Effective: December 31, 2026

This policy provides organizations with clear criteria on material eligibility, certification scope, minimum certification thresholds, certification options, and the specific responsibilities of becoming certified.

The policy applies to organizations seeking certification to the Materials Matter Standard, as well as those certifying to the Content Claim Standard (CCS) to track Materials Matter Certified materials through the supply chain.

What's included

• Material eligibility
• Certification scope (across Tier 4 and Tiers 0–3 separately)
• Certification options (individual, group, multi-site)
• Minimum certification thresholds
• Responsibilities of certified organizations

This supports a shared understanding of how certification is defined and applied in practice across supply chains and geographies.

For full details, refer to the Materials Matter Scope and Eligibility Policy (TE-MM-POL-101) .

Effective: October 1, 2026
Mandatory: April 1, 2027

This document establishes the criteria, processes, and templates for issuing Scope Certificates (SCs) and Transaction Certificates (TCs) across Textile Exchange standards.

What's changing

This document replaces the following existing documents, which will no longer apply as of the mandatory date:

• ASR-103-V3.1 Policy for Scope Certificates
• ASR-104-V3.1 Policy for Transaction Certificates
• ASR-117-V1.0 Material Ledger Policy
• ASR-204-V3.1 Template for Scope Certificates
• ASR-205-V3.1 Template for Transaction Certificates
• CCS-102-V3.1 CCS Certification Procedures, Section E

What this means

The Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates defines how scope certificates (SCs) and transaction certificates (TCs) are structured, issued, and managed across the Textile Exchange system.

Key highlights

• A unified policy framework replacing previously separate SC, TC, and material ledger documents.
• Greater standardization of certificate structure, numbering, and data requirements.
• Alignment with Trackit as the central platform for certificate data, authentication and supply chain tracking.
• Expanded and more consistent use of Textile Exchange IDs (TE-IDs).
• Improved data integrity and alignment with industry terminology.

For full details, refer to the Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203).

Effective: October 1, 2026
Mandatory: April 1, 2027

This document includes details specific to each Textile Exchange standard that are relevant for the issuance of scope and transaction certificates.

What this means

The Standard Specific Details for Assurance Systems complements the Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates by defining how requirements apply across different standards and scopes.

This document should be used alongside:

• TE-TXL-POL-203-V4.0 Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates

For full details, refer to the Standard Specific Details for Assurance Systems (TE-TXL-POL-204) .

Effective: October 1, 2026
Mandatory: April 1, 2027

These documents establish the requirements for Certification Bodies (CBs) and Accreditation Bodies (ABs) operating within the Textile Exchange standards system.

What this means

• The General Criteria for Certification Bodies (TE-TXL-POL-201) defines the requirements CBs must meet to achieve and maintain accreditation to perform certification to Textile Exchange standards and implement their related quality assurance systems.
• The General Criteria for Accreditation Bodies (TE-TXL-POL-202) defines the requirements for ABs to assess and accredit CBs to certify to the Textile Exchange standards/scopes, and for the accreditation body’s own systems to allow them to be authorized to do so.
• Together, these documents define how certification and accreditation are carried out across Textile Exchange standards.

Key updates

In response to stakeholder feedback, Textile Exchange has included new criteria for CBs and ABs to enable clearer and more timely communication during CB suspensions and to clarify requirements when organizations transfer CBs.

• New 7-day limit for preceding CB to share data with succeeding CB
• New criteria for all ABs to ensure transparent and timely communication about suspensions
• Textile Exchange has implemented wider communications on CB suspensions via email through TE-ID

Textile Exchange's role is to leverage system-level oversight on CB and AB coordination and communication. It is important to note that as standards owner, we are not able to require CBs to issue TCs or to mediate disputes between CBs and their clients.

What these policies replace

These documents replace and supersede:

• Accreditation and Certification Procedures (ASR-101)
• Procedure for the Withdrawal of Certification Body Licensing (ASR-112)
• Audit Methods Policy (ASR-114-V1.0)
• Section F of CCS Certification Procedures (CCS-102)

Additional criteria specific to individual standards or scopes will be defined in separate procedures.

For full details, refer to:

• General Criteria for Certification Bodies (TE-TXL-POL-201)
• General Criteria for Accreditation Bodies (TE-TXL-POL-202)

Updates have been made to the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF) to expand material classification options by introducing new classification codes.

What's changing

Additional classification options have been introduced for how reclaimed materials are categorized:

Pre- or post-consumer material column:

• PC0035 Processed post-consumer materials
• PC0036 Unprocessed post-consumer fibers/materials
• PC0041 Processed pre-consumer materials
• PC0042 Unprocessed pre-consumer fibers/materials

Feedstock column:

• PD0086 Flakes
• PD0087 Popcorns

For full details, refer to the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (TE-MM-TEM-105) .

Effective: April 1, 2026
Mandatory: July 1, 2026

Mulesing is prohibited under the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). In Australia, where the majority of the sheep flock is mulesed, this creates challenges for sourcing non-mulesed sheep for flock restocking. These situations may occur following extreme climate events, disease-related losses, or when maintaining or transitioning flock genetics.

Calibration 167 defines the conditions under which an exemption may be requested to purchase mulesed stock under these limited circumstances.

What’s changing

Previously, this calibration allowed greater discretion at the Certification Body (CB) level. Under the updated calibration, any use of mulesed sheep requires formal review and written approval from Textile Exchange prior to use. CBs may no longer independently determine eligibility or allow exemptions.

Exemption requests are justified by:

• An extreme climate event that has demonstrably impacted the farm
• A disease event resulting in significant flock loss
• A specific breeding goal, where the genetic traits or breed type being introduced is mentioned

Additional requirements have been introduced to ensure that:

• Farmers demonstrate prior efforts to source non-mulesed stock
• The need for restocking is not artificially created
• Full documentation is provided to support the request

Wool from mulesed sheep approved under an exemption may not be sold as RWS certified and must be kept separate from non-mulesed wool.

For full details, refer to Calibration 167 in the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221) .

Effective: April 1, 2026
Mandatory: July 1, 2026

This calibration clarifies the definition and expectations for the use of pain relief under the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), Responsible Mohair Standard (RMS), and Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS).

Current requirements state that pain relief must be used where suitable products are available. This calibration clarifies how availability is defined and how this requirement should be applied in practice, including situations where pain-relief products are not accessible or appropriate.

What's changing

• Pain relief is considered available when a suitable product is legally accessible for the relevant species and procedure, either over the counter or via veterinary prescription
• Where veterinary prescription is required, use remains subject to the veterinarian's professional judgement and legal responsibility
• Veterinarians cannot be required to prescribe or authorize use if deemed inappropriate or unsafe

Where pain relief is not used, farms must:

• Demonstrate efforts to obtain access to suitable products
• Maintain written justification, including evidence of engagement with veterinary services, renewed at least annually

If no suitable product is licensed for use, husbandry procedures without pain relief is acceptable. Off-label use remains at the discretion of the veterinarian but is not mandatory.

For full details, refer to Calibration 302 in the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221) .

The Banned Entities Log has been updated to reflect the latest changes.

This log lists organizations that are not permitted to participate in Textile Exchange certification.

For full details, refer to the Banned Entities Log (TE-TXL-LOG-225).

Effective: March 1, 2026
Mandatory: June 1, 2026

Calibration 274 clarifies the timeline for providing documentation between Certification Bodies (CBs) when an organization changes CB and explains how unpaid fees are expected to be handled during the transfer process.

Why it matters

• There was previously no clearly defined timeline for providing certification documentation between CBs, resulting in inconsistent practices, particularly in cases involving unpaid fees.
• Organizations are responsible for settling unpaid balances and may experience delays in the transfer process if fees are outstanding.

What's changing

Calibration 274 has been updated to clarify language and terminology related to CB transfers.

For all details related to Calibration 274, refer to the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221) .

Effective: April 1, 2026

Textile Exchange has previously announced that there will be a transition in our traceability platform from testing multiple third-party platforms towards facilitating eTransactions through a dedicated Textile Exchange user interface.

Calibration 297 is now being updated to reflect the full retirement of the TextileGenesis eTrackit platform and outline the actions required from Certification Bodies (CBs).

What's changing

• The Policy for the use of eTrackit (ASR-113-V1.0) is retired effective April 1, 2026.
• CBs with clients participating in continuing supply chains on the TextileGenesis platform will be contacted directly by Textile Exchange with instructions on how remaining volumes will be transferred to the Material Ledger.
• Remaining volumes refer to available volumes from the TextileGenesis eTrackit platform based on:
• Reclaimed material declaration forms (RMDFs), and/or
• Incoming eTransactions that have not been used for outgoing eTransactions.

How it impacts you

Some brands piloting eTrackit on the TextileGenesis platform have chosen to continue using the platform to complete designated supply chains. The CBs representing these brands will receive direct guidance.

For all details related to Calibration 297, refer to the Calibrations Log (TE-TXL-LOG-221) .

Effective: March 1, 2026
Mandatory: June 1, 2026

This calibration clarifies the timeline for providing documentation between Certification Bodies (CBs) when an organization changes CB and explains how unpaid fees are expected to be handled during the transfer process.

Why it matters:

• There has previously been no clear guidance on the timeline for documentation transfer between CBs, resulting in inconsistent practices, particularly where unpaid fees are involved.
• Organizations are responsible for settling outstanding fees and may experience delays in the transfer process due to unpaid balances. This calibration aims to ensure a more consistent transfer process across all CBs.

What's changing:

• When a certified organization transfers to a new CB, the preceding CB must provide all relevant data and documentation to the succeeding CB within seven calendar days of receiving a written transfer request.
• If the organization owes USD $100 or more in fees related to the standard, the preceding CB may withhold documentation. In such cases, documentation must be provided within seven calendar days after the account is settled.
• The succeeding CB may not conduct a transfer audit until all required documentation has been received from the preceding CB.

For all details related to Calibration 274, refer to the TE-TXL-LOG-221 Calibrations Log.

The Materials Matter Standard is a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. It sets out to incentivize a world in which the materials in our clothing and textiles are produced in a way that respects climate, nature, people, and animals.

The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy has been published alongside the Materials Matter Standard, and contains the requirements for using the new certification mark and labeling system for the Materials Matter Standard.

Transition for claims made by organizations in Tiers 1–3

• The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy becomes effective on December 31, 2026, with a mandatory transition date of June 30, 2029.
• By the mandatory date, all new claims must comply with the Materials Matter Standard. The policy replaces the Standard Claims Policy (TE-301-V1.4) and the Standards Logo Use Specifications (TE-302-V1.3).
• Further details on what the mandatory date means for claim makers will be provided in the Materials Matter Transition Policy, to be published in Q1 2026.

Purpose of this guidance

This document is designed to support organizations in Tiers 1–3 by providing an overview of key topics covered in the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy.

As this guidance is designed specifically for Tiers 1–3, it omits requirements related to customer-facing claims.

Organizations that also function as a farm, brand, or retailer must consult the policy for further information, or the relevant guidance documents, including:

• TE-MM-GUI-601 MMS Claims and Labeling Policy: Key Changes for Brands
• TE-MM-GUI-602 MMS Claims and Labeling Policy: Key Changes for Retailers

The scope of this guide is to:

• Explain the key changes in the new policy
• Provide context on the claims and labeling transition
• Recommend next steps for 2026

For full details, refer to the Materials Matter Claims & Labeling Policy: Guidance for Organizations in Tiers 1–3 (TE-MM-GUI-304-V1.0) .

The Materials Matter Standard unifies and harmonizes Textile Exchange's current standards, building on the strengths of what came before while offering a more streamlined pathway forward.

As the industry transitions to the Materials Matter System, understanding how existing requirements map to the new criteria is essential.

How the mapping is organized

This document is organized into separate tabs, each corresponding to one of the current standards included in the Materials Matter Standard:

• Recycled Claim Standard (RCS)
• Global Recycled Standard (GRS)
• Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)
• Responsible Mohair Standard (RMS)
• Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS)

What's included

For each standard, the document provides:

• The current standard criteria in their existing order.
• A comparison to the most closely aligned criterion in the Materials Matter Standard.
• Context explaining the logic behind updates, indicating shifts in criteria type (e.g., from major to critical).

Why it matters

The aim of this mapping is to support organizations already certified to existing standards. By reviewing the comparisons, certified organizations will gain early insights into the changes and shifts and be more prepared for the transition to the Materials Matter Standard.

Looking ahead

The publication of the final criteria on December 12, 2025, marks the first phase of the transition. The Materials Matter Standard becomes effective on December 31, 2026. Tier 4 organizations currently certified to GRS, RCS, and RAF standards may begin to be audited to the Materials Matter Standard or continue under existing standards until the mandatory date of December 31, 2027.

Refer to the Mapping Current Standards to the Materials Matter Standard (TE-MM-GUI-102) for all details.

Effective January 1, 2026 (recommended for implementation)

This calibration introduces additional verification requirements for Certification Bodies (CBs) when auditing collectors and concentrators that supply reclaimed materials directly to certified organizations.

Please note that collectors and concentrators who are certified to the Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and/or Global Recycled Standard (GRS) are excluded from the additional verification requirements.

What's changing

Additional guidance and requirements have been issued for CBs on how to select and verify collectors and concentrators supplying reclaimed materials. This includes:

• Physical on-site inspections for at least 2% of the total number of collectors and concentrators, selected on a risk-based approach in accordance with criteria 4-6 of the calibration.
• Remote verification (desk review and/or video-based) for at least 10% of the total number of collectors and concentrators.
• Verification should include:
  • Reviewing declared capacity against historical supply data and evaluated for consistency
  • Confirming valid business registration, as well as environmental and social compliance documents
  • Validating the material source and reason for waste generation
  • Cross-checking collected information against the Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF) to ensure consistency and transparency in documentation

What this means

• The calibration focuses on additional verification of non-certified collectors and concentrators supplying reclaimed materials.
• It is intended to provide CBs with additional audit guidance and to supplement existing requirements. This may result in more detailed checks on the origin and documentation of reclaimed materials for non-certified suppliers.

For all details related to Calibration 279 please refer to the TE-TXL-LOG-221 Calibrations Log.

Textile Exchange is pleased to announce the publication of the Materials Matter Standard excerpts, which include:

• TE-MM-STN-101A Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Wool
• TE-MM-STN-101B Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Mohair
• TE-MM-STN-101C Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Alpaca
• TE-MM-STN-101D Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Animal Fiber Processing Facilities
• TE-MM-STN-101E Materials Matter Standard Excerpt: Criteria for Recycled Materials

These documents provide material-specific extracts of the Materials Matter Standard V1.0 and are intended to support consistent understanding and application of the standard requirements of the relevant materials for stakeholders.

Transition Timeline

• December 12, 2025: Publication of the Materials Matter Standard and the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy.
• December 31, 2026: The standard becomes effective, meaning all Tier 4 organizations currently certified to Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), and Responsible Animal Fibers (RAF) standards may begin to be audited to the Materials Matter Standard or continue to be audited to the current standards. 
• December 31, 2027: The standard becomes mandatory, meaning the Materials Matter Standard is required for all eligible Tier 4 audits to maintain certification.

Next steps

2026 is a year of preparation and readiness. Stakeholders are encouraged to use this period to align internal systems, adapt processes, and begin capacity-building activities.

Throughout this phase, Textile Exchange will focus on practice, peer exchange, and readiness-building so that certification bodies and stakeholders are well-equipped to confidently begin optional implementation by the end of 2026.

Recommended next steps for Tier 4 (farmers and primary processors)

• The Materials Matter Standard includes criteria for raw material production and primary processing. This provides an opportunity for Tier 4 farms and primary processors to begin reviewing the revised requirements and preparing for transition ahead of the effective date.
• Begin reviewing the new criteria early to support a smooth transition once audits to the new standard begin.
• Start conversations with your certification body about what the transition to the Materials Matter Standard will look like for you.

The Materials Matter Standard is a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. It sets out to incentivize a world in which the materials in our clothing and textiles are produced in a way that respects climate, nature, people, and animals.

The standard establishes detailed requirements for the production and primary processing of raw materials—from how land, water, and energy are used, to how working conditions, animal welfare, emissions, chemicals, and waste are managed. Its purpose is to provide a common language and shared direction for the industry, while recognizing the unique contexts of different material producers, processors, and the communities and landscapes they depend on.

Transition Timeline

Today’s publication marks the beginning of a phased transition:

• December 12, 2025: Publication of the Materials Matter Standard and the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy.
• December 31, 2026: The standard becomes effective, meaning all Tier 4 organizations currently certified to Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), and Responsible Animal Fibers (RAF) standards may begin to be audited to the Materials Matter Standard or continue to be audited to the current standards. 
• December 31, 2027: The standard becomes mandatory, meaning the Materials Matter Standard is required for all eligible Tier 4 audits to maintain certification.

Next steps

2026 is dedicated to preparation and readiness. It’s a year for stakeholders—including producers, suppliers, and brands— to align internal systems, adapt processes, and begin capacity-building activities.

Throughout this phase we’ll focus on practice, peer exchange, and readiness-building so that by the end of 2026, both certification bodies and stakeholders feel well-equipped to confidently begin optional implementation.

Recommended next steps for Tier 4 (farmers and primary processors)

• The Materials Matter Standard includes criteria for raw material production and primary processing. This provides an opportunity for Tier 4 farms and primary processors to begin reviewing the revised criteria and preparing for transition ahead of the effective date.
• Start reviewing the new criteria early, to support a smooth transition once audits to the new standard begin.
• Start conversations with your certification body about what the transition to the Materials Matter Standard will look like for you.

Recommended next steps for Tier 1–3 suppliers

• Prepare to add Materials Matter to your scope certificate during your certification audit after the effective date, December 31, 2026.

Recommended next steps for brands

• Engage with your certified supply chain partners to support their transition to Materials Matter.
• Prepare to add Materials Matter to your scope certificate during your certification audit after the effective date, December 31, 2026.

Refer to the Materials Matter Standard (TE-MM-STN-101-V1.0) for all details.

The Materials Matter Standard is a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. It sets out to incentivize a world in which the materials in our clothing and textiles are produced in a way that respects climate, nature, people, and animals.

A key ambition of the Materials Matter system is to give brands and retailers who choose certified materials a way to speak confidently to customers about them.

The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy (TE-MM-POL-301-V1.0) has been published alongside the Materials Matter Standard, which outlines the requirements for use of the Materials Matter claims and labels.

What this means

• The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy supports the fashion, apparel and textile industry in communicating about certification in accurate and credible ways so that consumers can make informed choices.
• The policy also includes requirements for business-to-business claims, so that organizations across the supply chain from tier 4 producers to manufacturers can communicate certification.

What is changing

New certification mark, label, and claims language

The policy introduces a new certification mark and labeling system, as well as allowed language for communicating about Materials Matter.

While the policy contains the requirements for using the new mark and labeling system, the labeling assets and additional guidance materials for labeling will be available in 2026.

It is also important to highlight that organizations must sign a trademark license agreement with Textile Exchange before trademarks can be used. Please refer to section 4 of the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy for more information on how to use the trademarks. More information will be provided on this requirement and process in 2026.

New minimum content threshold

The new minimum content threshold for labeling eligibility in the Materials Matter standard system is 30%:

• This threshold applies only to final products or components.
• It applies to consumer-facing claims only, it does not apply to unfinished products in B2B transactions or transaction certificate eligibility.
• The 30% threshold is a combined requirement that can be achieved through a blend of multiple Materials Matter certified materials.

Examples:

• Product containing 50% certified recycled polyester and 50% cotton.
• Component containing 100% certified wool.
• Product containing 5% certified recycled nylon and 25% certified alpaca

Exception: There is an exception for recycled cotton and recycled MMCF, which have technical limitations, and a 20% labeling threshold will apply. This applies when the product contains only Materials Matter Certified recycled cotton or recycled MMCFs. If one of these materials is blended with any other Materials Matter Certified material(s), the 30% labeling threshold must be met. The 20% threshold will stay in place for these two materials until the end of a designated transition period, after which the threshold will increase to 30%.

Looking ahead

The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy will become effective on December 31, 2026. The mandatory date—when all claims and labels must transition to Materials Matter—is June 30, 2029. After this date, all claims submitted for approval will need to be to Materials Matter.

Further specifics of what the mandatory date means for claim makers will be detailed in the Materials Matter Transition Policy (to be published in February 2026).

Refer to the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy (TE-POL-301-V1.0) for all details.

The Materials Matter Standard is a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. It sets out to incentivize a world in which the materials in our clothing and textiles are produced in a way that respects climate, nature, people, and animals.

A key ambition of the Materials Matter system is to give brands and retailers who choose certified materials a way to speak confidently to customers about them.

A new Claims and Labeling Policy has been published alongside the Materials Matter Standard, which outlines the requirements for use of the Materials Matter claims and labels.

Brand claims transition

The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy will become effective on December 31, 2026. The mandatory date for when all claims and labels must transition to Materials Matter is June 30, 2029.

What the mandatory date means

From the mandatory date, only Materials Matter claims can be submitted for approval and claims to our current standards can no longer be submitted. In addition to this:

• Previously approved claims can no longer be used to print new materials;
• All online / e-commerce and other non-printed claims must be updated to Materials Matter; and
• Any previously approved claims that have already been printed and/or attached to product may be used up until gone to avoid waste and/or having to remove labeled products from shelf.

Further specifics of what the mandatory date means for claim makers will be detailed in the Materials Matter Transition Policy (to be published in February 2026).

The transition timeline has been shaped by brand feedback and industry consultation, with particular attention to the longer lead times associated with updates to product labeling. The mandatory date applies to forward-moving claims: brands will not be required to remove current standard labels that were approved and already printed or attached to products prior to this date.

Purpose of this guidance

This document is designed to support brands as they prepare for the transition by:

• Explaining key changes introduced in the new policy
• Providing context on the claims and labeling transition
• Recommending next steps for 2026

Refer to the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy: Key Changes for Brands (TE-MM-GUI-601-V1.0) for all details.

The Materials Matter Standard is a voluntary sustainability standard for the production and primary processing of raw materials used in the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. It sets out to incentivize a world in which the materials in our clothing and textiles are produced in a way that respects climate, nature, people, and animals.

A key ambition of the Materials Matter system is to give brands and retailers who choose certified materials a way to speak confidently to customers about them.

A new Claims and Labeling Policy has been published alongside the Materials Matter Standard, which outlines the requirements for use of the Materials Matter claims and labels.

What is changing

Retailer claims will require approval

To provide more clarity and credibility to noncertified retailers selling and looking to make claims about certified products, we are introducing new guidance, processes, and systems for Materials Matter.

Since retailers sit outside of our chain of custody and are not obliged to meet standard requirements, the Claims and Labeling Policy does not include criteria for noncertified retailers. Instead, we will offer a separate guidance document to support retailer claims.

Additionally, noncertified retailers will now need to submit their claims for approval through Textile Exchange.

A centralized approval system is being developed by Textile Exchange, and instructions for the formal process will be outlined in a guidance document that will be published in Q4 2026.

Claims transition

The Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy will become effective on December 31, 2026, with a mandatory transition date of June 30, 2029. This includes claims made by noncertified retailers.

After this mandatory date, all claims submitted for approval will need to be to Materials Matter. Further specifics of what the mandatory date means for claim makers will be detailed in the Materials Matter Transition Policy (to be published in February 2026).

The transition period has been informed by brand feedback and industry consultation, with particular consideration for the longer lead times associated with updates to product labeling. The mandatory date will apply to forward moving claims, and neither brands nor retailers will be required to remove current standard labels that were approved and printed or attached to products prior to this date.

Purpose of this guidance

This document is designed to support retailers in preparing for the transition by:

• Explaining key changes that affect retailer claims
• Providing context on the claims and labeling transition
• Recommending next steps for 2026

Refer to the Materials Matter Claims and Labeling Policy: Key Changes for Retailers (TE-MM-GUI-602-V1.0) for all details.

Effective November 1, 2025

Mandatory December 1, 2025

This calibration clarifies how production volumes are managed under the Responsible Animal Fiber (RAF) and Responsible Down Standard (RDS) programs. It enables Certification Bodies (CBs) to base certified volumes on actual production rather than estimated farm capacity.

Why it matters:

• Under the current Material Ledger Policy (ASR-117-V1.0), production volumes for farms are based on an estimation of farm capacity as reported on the Scope Certificate (SC), with unused capacity removed annually.
• Following a policy review, it has been confirmed that actual farm production data can be used to manage certified volumes.

What's changing:

• New criteria have been introduced (see B3.4), requiring Certification Bodies (CBs) to submit volume adjustments using a volume adjustment reason (volumeAdjReason) of "F" to reflect actual farm production.
  • Estimated production may continue through 2026, provided the CBs reconcile it with actual production at least annually (see B3.4.3).
  • Controls have been introduced to ensure that production volumes from farms listed as subsequent sites on SCs are not duplicated (see B3.5).
• Additional updates have been made to the Material Ledger Policy to support this calibration – B2.6.4.f has been revised, and B2.6.3.b no longer applies.

Looking ahead: Textile Exchange will introduce a method for CBs to upload actual farm production volumes to Trackit using a declaration of farm production instead of through a volume adjustment. This will be launched alongside the upcoming Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203) in 2026.

For all details related to Calibration 296, refer to the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective November 1, 2025 (immediate implementation)

What's changing: Textile Exchange has decided to transition from testing multiple third-party platforms and will instead facilitate eTransactions through a dedicated Textile Exchange user interface.

This calibration clarifies what actions are required from Certification Bodies (CBs) with or without clients continuing to use the TextileGenesis platform.

How it impacts you:

Certified Organizations: Some brands piloting eTrackit on the TextileGenesis platform have chosen to continue using this platform for the next phase of their activities to complete designated supply chains.

Certification Bodies (CBs):

• CBs without clients continuing to use the TextileGenesis platform do not need to take any further action. The Policy for the use of eTrackit (ASR-113-V1.0) no longer applies to these CBs.
• CBs with clients continuing to use the TextileGenesis platform will be contacted by Textile Exchange with details on which clients remain active.

Looking ahead: Update criteria for eTransactions and eTrackit will be published by Textile Exchange in 2026 and will apply to all CBs.

For all details related to Calibration 297, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective December 1, 2025 (optional use)

This calibration clarifies that decimal values may now be provided for material composition percentages when submitting Transaction Certificate (TC) data to dTrackit.

What's changing:

• Under the current Policy for Transaction Certificates (ASR-104-V3.1 B2.10.11.c) only integer values are allowed.
• dTrackit now accepts two decimal places for material composition percentages in data submissions.
• For the PDF version of the TC, percentages must still be rounded to the nearest integer number.
  • E.g. 50.40% must be rounded to 50% on the PDF.

Looking ahead: Calculation to two decimal places will become mandatory in the upcoming Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates (TE-TXL-POL-203), to be released alongside the Materials Matter Standard.

For all details related to Calibration 298, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective December 1, 2025 (optional use)

This calibration provides flexibility for Certification Bodies (CBs) that are implementing automated volume adjustments in the Material Ledger. Under the current Material Ledger Policy (ASR-117-V1.0 B2.9), only one volume adjustment per input per day is allowed, which limits automation.

What's changing:

• The limit of one volume adjustment per day (ASR-117 B2.9) has been removed. Multiple adjustments may now be made per day for each input to a certified organization.
• It is now allowed for the Material Ledger balance to be temporarily negative during the day, as long as it is corrected by the end of that same day.
• The requirement for CBs to investigate and correct negative balances within seven calendar days (ASR-117 B2.7) should now be interpreted as applying only to the balances at the end of the day.

For all details related to Calibration 299, refer to the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective November 3, 2025 (optional use)

The Reclaimed Material Declaration Form, originally released on July 1, 2025, has undergone a minor revision to improve data standardization and ingestion.

The form was introduced to improve how reclaimed materials are tracked as they enter GRS and RCS certified supply chains.

While it is not yet mandatory, the form may be used in place of the previous versions found in Appendix C of Global Recycled Standard (GRS-101) and Recycled Claim Standard (RCS-101). It will become required for all reclaimed inputs under the upcoming Materials Matter Standard.

Minor Updates:

• The product number field now only accepts values from 10000 to 99999 to align with ingestion requirements.
• Percentage fields allow up to two decimal places to support certified weight accuracy.
• Stricter controls have been applied to country and state fields to ensure valid country-state combinations.

For all details, refer to the TE-MM-TEM-105 Reclaimed Material Declaration Form.

Effective October 1, 2025 (optional use)

This calibration provides guidance for certification bodies that may be required by their accreditation body to include the accreditation number on scope certificates. This field is not currently part of the standard scope certificate template.

What’s changing:

• ASR-103-V3.1 (Section B1.12) has been amended to allow certification bodies to include their accreditation number—assigned by their accreditation body—on scope certificates. This addition is optional and not part of the scope certificate data submission to Textile Exchange.
• The current Textile Exchange Scope Certificate User Interface does not support this field. If required, certification bodies may manually add the accreditation number to the scope certificate.

Why it matters:

This update offers flexibility for certification bodies needing to meet specific accreditation requirements, without impacting the existing certificate data submission process.

For all details related to Calibration 294, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective October 1, 2025

Mandatory December 1, 2025

This calibration provides clarity in situations where dTrackit is unable to determine the correct input for deducting volumes in the Material Ledger. Since inputs are tracked based on product category and product details, but this information is not currently collected for incoming transaction certificates, additional steps by certification bodies are needed in certain situations.

Please note that this is a temporary solution. TE-TXL-POL-203, which will replace ASR-117 in 2026, will resolve this issue with updates to tracking inputs.

What’s changing:

When transaction certificates are submitted to dTrackit, the system will automatically identify the input product category and product detail if:

• There is one product on the incoming transaction certificate
• There are multiple products, but all share the same product category and product detail
• The input product category and product detail codes are provided in the certification body's data submission

In other situations, certification bodies must include this information with their data submission.

If dTrackit cannot identify the input, the volumes will be deducted based on product category PC9999 and product detail PD9999 (as per ASR-213-V1.4). These codes are only used for deductions and cannot have a positive balance.

In such situations, certification bodies must:

• Apply volume adjustments to PC9999-PD9999 and the correct product category-product detail combination for each applicable raw material to correct the balance.
• Use the volume adjustment reason of "PCPD" to document the correction.
• Complete the adjustment within 30 days of the original transaction certificate and no later than by the end of 2026.

For all details related to Calibration 293, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Textile Exchange has published the Standard Setting Procedures (TE-TXL-POL-101-V1.0), which replaces ASR-102.V4.0 (previous version) and is applicable for the development and revision of Textile Exchange standard(s). The objectives of these procedures are to ensure that:

• The development and revision of Textile Exchange standards comply with international best practices for standard setting (e.g., ISEAL Code of Good Practice for Sustainability Systems)
• Textile Exchange standards effectively meet their respective goals
• The standard development process is inclusive and transparent to affected stakeholders.

Review all details in the Standard Setting Procedures (TE-TXL-POL-101-V1.0).

Mandatory by September 27, 2026

Upcoming EU legislation – the Empowering Consumers Directive (ECD) and the Green Claims Directive (GCD) – requires higher levels of credibility and substantiation for environmental claims. To align and maintain consistency with existing ISEAL requirements, Textile Exchange has updated the TE-301 Standards Claims Policy.

Commitment & Progress (Sourcing) Claims

New requirement: By September 27, 2026, all commitment claims (corporate commitments, sourcing/progress claims) must be verified by a credible party.

Why it matters: The ECD classifies these as "future environmental performance claims". Without verification, they may be considered misleading.

What to do now:

• Continue making commitment/progress claims as usual until September 27, 2026 (see B2.1.1 and B2.1.5 of the previous version of TE-301, version 1.3)
• If not already in place, begin exploring third-party verification mechanisms for any claims you intend to use after that date.

After September 27, 2026:

• All commitment/progress claims must have third-party verification
• Unverified claims carry legal and reputational risk.

Next steps & support

Textile Exchange recognizes these updates require effort across the industry. As this work progresses, we are:

• Developing an approach to credible verification, to be published before the mandatory date of the TE-301 policy.
• Gathering input on existing verification practices to inform this framework.
• Providing further guidance, FAQs, and stakeholder consultation opportunities to support a smooth transition.

Product Labeling Recommendations

Some labeling requirements are being updated to minimize legal exposure under the ECD.

New recommendations:

• Add informational statements alongside "responsible" claims (applies to RDS, RWS, RMS, and RAS).
• Clearly identify each certified component in the product.
• Add disclaimers for non-certified trims or accessories (e.g. buttons, zippers) not included in the certified composition calculation.

Why it matters:

• The ECD bans generic environmental claims, including “responsible”. Adding an informational statement clarifies its meaning and makes it an explicit, compliant claim.
• Claims must cover the whole product. Including details on trims or components ensures accuracy and prevents consumer confusion.

What to do (recommended before September 27, 2026):

• Apply updated labeling guidance to all new approvals (due to long production lead times).
• Update online claims where needed.
• On-product claims already in the market may remain at the brand’s own legal risk.

Review all details in the TE-301 Standards Claims Policy.

For questions or clarifications, please contact standards@textileexchange.org.

Textile Exchange has published the Summary of Feedback Received on 2024 Pilots and Workshops (TE-MM-GUI-130-V1.0), which presents key takeaways from the pilot testing and workshops that have informed the development of the Materials Matter Standard V1.0, scheduled for release in December 2025.

What's included:

• Assess key questions on the feasibility and auditability of the standard criteria
• Collect insights and feedback for standards system and assurance tools

Why it matters:

The development of the Materials Matter Standard is grounded in Textile Exchange's commitment to integrity, relevance, and continuous improvement. Since the work began in 2021, the criteria have been refined through successive drafts shaped by stakeholder input and real-world testing. This interactive approach has enabled the standard to evolve based on stakeholder expertise, emerging practices, and pilot feedback – ensuring it remains relevant and practical for today's supply chain context.

How it helps you:

We encourage stakeholders to consult this 2024 summary for a more in-depth review of Textile Exchange's feedback process and how pilot input has informed the final standard.

For further information, please refer to the Summary of Feedback Received on 2024 Pilots and Workshops (TE-MM-GUI-130-V1.0).

Effective September 1, 2025 (optional use)

No mandatory date at this time.

This calibration provides guidance to support the authentication of seller and buyer identities on transaction certificates for OCS material inputs, under accepted scenarios described in ASR-106-V2.4. It addresses inconsistencies observed among certification bodies regarding how identities are verified.

What's changing:

• All organizations in the supply chain should include the tax number of both seller and buyer in each invoice, in line with local regulations.
• Certification bodies should verify identification using the relevant government sources.
• For entities based in India, permanent account number (PAN) or Aadhaar numbers should be used for both seller and buyer and verified by the certification body through official portals mentioned in the calibration.

For all details related to Calibration 278, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective September 1, 2025 (optional use)

No mandatory date at this time.

This calibration provides guidance to support the authentication of transportation documents for all material inputs for OCS products under accepted scenarios described in ASR-106-V2.4. It addresses inconsistencies observed among certification bodies regarding how such documents are verified.

What's changing:

Certification bodies should verify transportation documentation to confirm the physical movement of goods from the farm to the first processing facility, establishing traceability for OCS product inputs.

For organic cotton grown in India, the following approach applies:

• If the transport distance is 50 km or less within the same district: A buyer declaration may be accepted in place of formal transport documentation.
• If the distance exceeds 50 km or crosses districts: A valid truck (lorry) receipt should be provided; buyer declaration should not be accepted.

Additionally, certification bodies should confirm the authenticity of the transporter and verify shipping documentation for international shipments where the seller is based in India.

The appropriate verification tools as described in the calibration should be used, based on the type of documentation provided.

For all details related to Calibration 290, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective September 1, 2025 (optional use)

No mandatory date at this time.

This calibration provides guidance to support the authentication of farm scope certificates and transaction certificates for all materials inputs for OCS products under accepted scenarios described in ASR-106-V2.4. It addresses inconsistencies observed among certification bodies regarding how these certificates are verified.

What's changing:

Certification bodies should validate the authenticity and current status of farm scope certificates and all incoming transaction certificates using one of the following methods:

• QR code scanning to confirm validity (where available)
• Email confirmation with the issuing certification body (if QR code scanning is not available)

Additionally, certification bodies should verify the accreditation status of the issuing certification body before accepting any scope or transaction certificates as valid.

For all details related to Calibration 289, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective December 1, 2025 (optional use)

This calibration provides guidance for when and how information from the TE-MM-TEM-105 Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (RMDF) may be included on Transaction Certificates (TCs).

What's changing:

Certification bodies may now include RMDF information on outgoing TCs from the recycler when the RMDF is completed using TE-MM-TEM-105 and ingested into Trackit. Inclusion is optional and may begin as of December 1, 2025, or upon RMDF ingestion into Trackit – whichever comes first.

The following RMDF information may be included on the outgoing TC:

• Input RMDF number
• Reclaimed material source (as a process code)
• Feedstock, including the product category (pre- or post-consumer material), product detail (feedstock), and certified raw material (reclaimed material)
• First process code (recycling process performed by recycler – allowable values are PR0003, PR0004, PR0017, PR0042, PR0043, PR0044)

When the seller is the recycler, all of the fields above must be included.

For all other sellers beyond the recycler, all fields except the RMDF number must be included, and only if all input TCs contain RMDF data.

When this information is included on a TC, it must be included under tcProductInfoAdditional in the following format:

(RMDF number); Reclaimed material source (reclaimed material source); Feedstock (pre or post consumer material)-(feedstock)-(reclaimed material); First process code (first processor processing code)

Example (seller is the recycler): RMDF-12345678-251001-123456; Reclaimed material source PR0016; Feedstock PC0037-PD0096-RM0489; First process code PR0017

Why it matters:

This calibration improves traceability of reclaimed input data, enables more detailed TC information, and prepares stakeholders for future RMDF data field requirements with the next revision to the Transaction Certificate Policy.

How it helps you:

• Certification bodies can begin sharing RMDF data on TCs in a standardized format.
• Certified organizations gain greater visibility and traceability of recycled input materials.

For all details related to Calibration 287, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective Immediately – Applies to All Textile Exchange Claims

This calibration outlines how claim makers must comply with local language or bilingual labeling laws when referencing Textile Exchange Standards. It ensures clarity for consumers and supports compliance in regions where translations are now a legal requirement.

What’s changing:

• In jurisdictions where translated or bilingual labeling is required by law, all claims, labels, tags, and descriptive elements referencing a Textile Exchange Standard must follow local language requirements.
• Applies to all claim types in TE-301-V1.3 (Commitment, Assured, Agreement-based, Informational).
• French translations of standard names are now available for use where needed; other translations can be requested if required by law.

Why it matters:

This ensures consumers can understand sustainability claims in their own language, strengthens transparency, and helps claim makers meet regional compliance expectations.

How it helps you:

• Meets legal requirements across jurisdictions
• Improves accessibility of claims for local audiences
• Provides clear formatting options for compliant labeling

Labeling format options (TE-302-V1.3):

1. Required language only (e.g. French)
2. Bilingual format (e.g. English + French side-by-side)
3. Translated duplicate (English + French shown separately)

Textile Exchange logos must not be translated or altered.

For all details related to Calibration 285, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective July 1, 2025

Mandatory October 1, 2025

This calibration clarifies how Textile Exchange-IDs (TE-IDs) will be assigned and implemented for farms under the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) and Responsible Animal Fiber (RAF) standards.

It applies to all farms listed on a scope certificate under the following process codes:

• PR0037 – Farming (area)
• PR0038 – Farming (communal)
• PR0011 – Farming (group)
• PR0036 – Farming (individual)

Farms that are already listed as the certified organization (i.e. the main site on the scope certificate) are not affected, as they already have TE-IDs.

What’s changing:

• Farms listed on a scope certificate (but not acting as the certified organization) will now receive TE-IDs.
• Textile Exchange will generate these IDs based on existing dTrackit data uploaded before July 1, 2025.
• Certification bodies will receive a file with assigned TE-IDs for each applicable farm by August 15, 2025.
• Certification bodies must either:
  • Distribute these TE-IDs to each farm, or
  • Instruct the certified organization to do so (and verify this by the next scheduled audit).
• For farms not captured in the initial list, registration may occur either through the TE-ID portal or via a bulk upload facilitated by the certification body.

Why it matters:

Assigning TE-IDs to all certified farms strengthens traceability at the source and brings farm-level data into alignment with the rest of the certified supply chain. It enables more reliable linkage between farms, scope certificates, and farm-level data.

How it helps you:

• Improved traceability: Every farm now has a unique identifier, making it easier to verify certification details and manage changes like farm group transfers.
• Fewer gaps in data: Including TE-IDs on farm surveys and scope certificates ensures complete records across all certified entities.
• Streamlined updates: If a farm moves to a different group, no new registration is required – its TE-ID stays the same.

Key deadlines and requirements:

• August 15, 2025: Certification bodies receive pre-assigned TE-IDs from Textile Exchange.
• Within 30 days: Certification body or certified organization must notify farms of their TE-IDs.
• October 1, 2025, onward:
  • TE-IDs must be listed on all new or updated scope certificates and farm surveys.
  • Data submissions to Textile Exchange must include TE-IDs for all listed farms.

For farms, only the TE-ID, country/area, and state/province (if applicable) will be publicly visible. Names and addresses remain private unless the farm is a certified organization.

For all details related to Calibration 283, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Textile Exchange has released the Quick Guide to Product Labeling (TE-TXL-GUI-602-V1.0) to help brands, suppliers, and retailers navigate the requirements for making product-related claims under our standards system. The guide provides a practical overview of what is needed to label certified products accurately and in compliance with the Content Claim Standard (CCS) and the Standards Claims Policy.

What's included:

The Quick Guide clarifies how certification connects to product labeling, explains that product claims must be substantiated with transaction certificates, and outlines how brands need to be certified to make on-product claims. It also clarifies how suppliers and retailers can communicate about certified products while maintaining compliance.

Why it matters:

Certified product claims build trust with customers and stakeholders. They demonstrate that sustainability messages are more than marketing and are verified by a third-party system that traces materials from start to final product. By following the requirements in the CCS and Standards Claims Policy, brands help ensure the integrity and credibility of their sustainability claims.

How it helps you:

• Brands will better understand their requirements for certification and claim approvals.
• Suppliers will gain clarity on the type of off-product claims they can make.
• Retailers will know how to communicate about certified products without introducing unverified claims and maintain compliance.

For further information, please refer to the Quick Guide for Product Labeling (TE-TXL-GUI-602-V1.0).

Effective July 1, 2025

No mandatory date at this time.

This calibration provides clarification on who is responsible for completing and submitting the updated Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (TE-MM-TEM-105) and outlines the context regarding the transition to the new TE-MM-TEM-105 form. It is not yet mandatory, but TE-MM-TEM-105 will be required for all reclaimed inputs under the Materials Matter Standard.

What’s changing:

• The first certified organization in the supply chain - whether a collector, concentrator, or recycler - is responsible for completing and submitting the RMDF to their certification body.
• If using the new RMDFs, they must be submitted more frequently to increase traceability.
• Certified collectors and concentrators should obtain Transaction Certificates for any reclaimed materials they sell.
• The updated TE-MM-TEM-105 form may now replace the prior RMDF templates under GRS and RCS.

For full details on the form’s structure, data fields, and benefits, access the form through the Textile Exchange Knowledge Center (link here).

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For all details related to Calibration 276, access the ASR-221 Calibration Log.

Effective January 1, 2026 - Applies to All Certification Bodies

Textile Exchange is implementing a revised certification fee structure, outlined in Textile Exchange Certification Fee Structure (TE-TXL-POL-701-V1.0), to bring greater consistency, transparency, and accountability to how certification system costs are shared. This policy is effective and mandatory on January 1, 2026, and replaces the previous structure in ASR-107-V2025.0.

The new structure is designed to make fees easier to calculate by moving to a flat rate fee calculated per each certified organization certified by each certification body.

It is critical to note that these fees are charged to the certification body and not paid directly by the certified organization to Textile Exchange. Certification bodies may include this fee in their pricing.

What’s changing:

• A flat certification fee of $525 USD will apply to each certified organization (identified by a TE-ID) listed as the main holder of the scope certificate (i.e. not individual sites or facilities).
• This change eliminates additional fees for associated subcontractors and facilities listed on the scope certificate—only the certified organization will incur a charge to the certification body.
• Farm organizations (i.e. any certified organization with a farm process code in their scope certificate) are excluded from fee calculations charged to certification bodies by Textile Exchange.
• The fee is harmonized across all Textile Exchange Standards and all organization types (e.g., recyclers, traders, processors, brands).

Why it matters:

This policy supports a sustainable and scalable certification system by:

• Moving away from a fragmented site-based model to a cleaner, per-organization structure that aligns better with how certification is issued.
• Creating consistency across standards and certification bodies, simplifying how fees are tracked and communicated.

How it impacts you:

Certified Organizations:

• The new flat-rate fee structure creates a clear and predictable pricing model. However, some organizations, such as those without associated subcontractors or additional sites, may see an increase in certification-related costs compared to the prior fee model.
• On the other hand, organizations that previously had many associated subcontractors or facilities may see fewer overall charges, since the certification body will only be subject to one $525 fee per certified organization.

Certification Bodies:

• The per certified organization fee streamlines administration and aligns directly with how certificates are issued. It supports stronger integration with digital tools like Trackit and simplifies reconciliation at year-end.

What’s staying the same:

• Fees are only charged to certification bodies, not directly to certified organizations.
• Certification and audit requirements remain unchanged.
• The same TE-ID structure will continue to be used to identify certified organizations.

Next steps:

• Certification bodies should review TE-TXL-POL-701-V1.0 and prepare to apply the new model to all certificates issued on or after January 1, 2026.
• Certified organizations should expect to see this fee reflected in their certification body’s pricing and can ask their CB for clarification if needed.

Review all details in the Textile Exchange Certification Fee Structure (TE-TXL-POL-701-V1.0)

For questions or clarifications, reach out to your certification body or contact standards@textileexchange.org.

Effective date: July 1, 2025

A new calibration and updated form are now available to improve how reclaimed materials are tracked as they enter GRS and RCS certified supply chains. The updated Reclaimed Material Declaration Form (TE-MM-TEM-105) may replace the previous versions found in Appendix C of GRS-101 and RCS-101. It is not yet mandatory, but TE-MM-TEM-105 will be required for all reclaimed inputs under the Materials Matter Standard.

What’s changing:

• The first certified organization in the supply chain - whether a collector, concentrator, or recycler - is responsible for completing and submitting the RMDF to their certification body.
• If using the new RMDFs, they must be submitted more frequently to increase traceability.
• Certified collectors and concentrators should obtain Transaction Certificates for any reclaimed materials they sell.
• The updated TE-MM-TEM-105 form may now replace the prior RMDF templates under GRS and RCS.

Why it matters:

Today, tracking reclaimed materials, especially textile waste, often relies on manual documentation. This slows down certificate processing and limits the ability to scale traceability systems.

By introducing a standardized format with clear responsibilities, this update enables more complete and reliable data collection.

How it helps you:

• Reduces delays: RMDFs submitted correctly and consistently help avoid back-and-forth and speed up Transaction Certificate issuance.
• Improves traceability: Collecting origin, composition, and classification data in a structured and more timely way enables better visibility for downstream buyers and brands.
• Prepares for the future: The form integrates with Trackit, laying the foundation for digitized, scalable tracking under the upcoming Materials Matter Standard.

Next steps:

• Download the new TE-MM-TEM-105 form (link here).
• Begin using it now, as it will be required for all reclaimed inputs under the Materials Matter Standard.
• Coordinate with your certification body to ensure they are ready to process and upload the form to Trackit.

Early adoption is encouraged to support a smooth transition.

Please reach out to standards@textileexchange.org with any questions.

Effective October 1, 2025

Mandatory December 1, 2025

Textile Exchange is introducing a Material Ledger to improve how certified input volumes are tracked and managed across the supply chain. This system will record the available balance of certified materials for each organization, acting like a digital inventory that supports real-time reconciliation between dTrackit and eTrackit.

The Material Ledger Policy (ASR-117-V1.0) outlines the criteria for setting up and maintaining this ledger, beginning with a critical first step: uploading opening balances for all certified inputs held as of October 1, 2025.

What’s changing:

• Certification bodies must upload opening balances for each certified organization before December 1, 2025. These balances reflect the volume of certified inputs available for use as of October 1, 2025.
• Starting October 1, only transaction certificates and eTransactions dated on or after that date will count toward the ledger balance.
• Material ledger balances will become visible to certified organizations starting January 1, 2026, once opening balances and relevant transactions are in place.
• Volume updates will be required at least annually through volume adjustments.
• An alternative upload method is introduced to cover eligible historical transaction certificates and GOTS inputs not previously uploaded to dTrackit.

Why it matters:

• Until now, volume reconciliation has been managed individually by certification bodies using their own systems. The material ledger addresses this by introducing a single, centralized system that tracks certified input volumes across all certified organizations.

This system:

• Supports automated checks for available volumes before issuing transaction certificates.
• Links all certified material movements to a live balance.
• Enables digital traceability at scale, preparing the system for future data and reporting needs under TE-TXL-POL-203 Policy for Scope and Transaction Certificates.

How it helps you:

• For Certified Organizations: You’ll gain a live view of your available certified input volumes within Trackit. This improves visibility across sites and helps prevent overdraws, delays, or manual back-and-forth with your certification body.
• For Certification Bodies: The ledger streamlines the TC approval process by integrating volume checks directly into Trackit. It reduces manual reconciliation work and centralizes oversight, improving efficiency and audit-readiness.
• For Brands and Buyers: The material ledger builds trust and transparency, allowing you to verify that materials used in your supply chain are available, certified, and correctly tracked from origin to final product. It also enables better forecasting and procurement alignment based on real-time material availability.

What you need to do now:

Certification bodies must:

• Upload opening balances between October 1 and December 1, 2025.
• Follow ASR-117 and ASR-217 for guidance on calculation and formatting.
• Maintain clear records of how balances were determined and ensure only one opening balance per input per certified organization is uploaded.

Certified organizations should:

• Work with their certification body to ensure all certified input volumes on hand as of October 1, 2025, are accounted for.
• Understand that no opening balance = no volume available for certified sales in the material ledger.

The success of the material ledger depends on timely and accurate opening balance uploads. Without this, certified organizations will show a zero balance and will not be able to issue certified transaction certificates or eTransactions after October 1.

Review all details in the Material Ledger Policy (ASR-117-V1.0).

For questions or further guidance, reach out to your certification body or contact standards@textileexchange.org.

Effective July 1, 2025

Mandatory October 1, 2025

Textile Exchange has published an updated version of its foundational reference for identifying acceptable recycled input materials under the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and Recycled Claim Standard (RCS). The new Guide to Recycled Materials (GRS-202-V2.0) replaces the previous “Guide to Recycled Inputs” (V1.0) and provides updates that improve clarity, alignment with international definitions, and traceability.

It is important to note that the intention of this update was to clarify existing criteria and guidance, not to alter the scope of eligibility for recycled inputs.

What’s changing: This updated guide clarifies guidance on which input materials qualify as “recycled” with GRS/RCS and future Materials Matter System requirements.

Key changes include:

• Updated Title: Changed from “Guide to Recycled Inputs” to “Guide to Recycled Materials” to better reflect the document’s scope.

• Clarity on Criteria versus Guidance: Section A1 outlines how readers are advised to use the document. A table now indicates whether each section contains mandatory criteria or guidance, and whether this is directed at certified organizations or certification bodies.
• Minor Updates to Definitions: Small changes were made to align pre-consumer, post-consumer, and reclaimed definitions with the latest version of ISO 14021. With that said, the intended meaning of these definitions has not changed.
• Further Context on Pre-Consumer Material & Differentiation Between Byproduct and Waste: There is further explanation on the definition of pre-consumer material in sections A5 & A6, with the intention to more clearly differentiate between recovered material diverted from the waste stream and reutilized material. In addition, a decision tree is included which defines a byproduct versus waste.
• Updates to Eligibility Table for Textile Inputs: Minor language updates were made to the table in Section F to provide additional clarification for textile materials.
• Non-Textile Reclaimed Inputs: A new table in Section G2 contains examples of non-textile input sources and their eligibility. Section H1 presents the evaluation of non-textile feedstocks, proposing that certification bodies only need to seek approval from Textile Exchange if a material is not included in the table in Section G2.
• Alternative Pre-Consumer Plastic Definition: Section G1 includes an alternative pre-consumer material definition for plastics, providing further context on regrind and when it is considered a pre-consumer recycled material.
• Updates for Evaluating Innovations for Mechanically Recycled Cotton Yarn & Wool: Sections H3 & H4 have been added for certification bodies to use when evaluating a mechanically recycled cotton or wool yarn that is outside of the parameters of the criteria in Section C2 but has been proposed as an innovation.

Why it matters:

This update creates clearer guidance to help ensure certified materials are classified consistently and backed up by proper documentation. It supports:

• Stronger alignment with international definitions and clearer decision-making during audits and certification.
• More reliable verification of recycled content claims by clearly defining acceptable vs. unacceptable input streams.
• Better system integration with tools like Trackit and TE-ID by promoting standardized material classification.
• System readiness for future digitization, minimizing confusion across certification bodies and facilities as expectations evolve.

How it impacts you:

Recyclers and Collectors:

• You’ll need to review the updated material definitions and confirm that your sourcing and documentation practices align.

Certification Bodies:

• This version provides a clearer framework for evaluating and approving input materials. CBs should begin updating audit checklists and training internal teams on revised material categories and documentation requirements.

Brands and Retailers:

• More consistent input classification helps build stronger trust in certified content claims. Brands should ensure their suppliers are using recycled inputs that meet these clarified definitions to reduce compliance risk.

Next steps:

• The updated guide takes effect on July 1, 2025, with mandatory use starting October 1, 2025.
• Certification bodies and certified organizations should begin training, update procedures, and reviewing purchasing and documentation workflows now.

Review all details in the Guide to Recycled Materials (GRS-202-V2.0).

If composition testing shows a small difference from what’s listed on your Transaction Certificate (TC) but the result is still within the allowed margin of error and meets the minimum certified content required for a product-related claim, you now have more flexibility in how you make your claim.

You can choose to use:

• The percentages from your care label, if they match the test results,
• The percentages listed on the TC, or
• A minimum percentage allowed under our claims policy (see section B3.12.4 of TE-301-V1.3).

Whatever you choose, the percentage still needs to meet the minimum required for making a claim under Textile Exchange standards.

Why this matters: Care labels often need to follow legal labeling laws and show lab-tested results, which might be slightly different from your TC. This update gives you options to stay compliant while still making a certified claim.

For guidance on larger discrepancies or how to handle TCs in those cases, see Calibration 269.

The document is jointly developed by GOTS and Textile Exchange for the harmonized application of their policies for scope and transaction certificates, detailing specific codes for materials, processes and products.

This update introduces new Raw Material codes as requested by certification bodies in order to manage and detail reclaimed materials in the beginning of the recycling process by collectors or recyclers. This is a minor revision of ASR-213. A major revision is planned to align the document with the Materials Matter Standard.

Access the policy here.

Calibration 282 extends the credit accumulation period for organizations using VR2 processes, as the original 12-month limit in CCS-105-V3.1 is not feasible in some cases. Starting May 1st, 2025, the timeline in CCS-105-V3.1 section A2.11 is now extended to 24 months. This calibration may be applied retroactively to credits that expired during the 12 months prior to the publication of this calibration.

Access the calibration log here.

Starting May 1st, 2025, a new data field will be used to capture the certified weight from an input transaction certificate. The current format in the Policy for Transaction Certificates (ASR.104-V3.1, section D2.1.5) is being adjusted to align with what is prescribed by the Certification Body Data Specifications Policy (ASR-507-V2.1). This change in format is needed for the function of the material ledger, which is being developed for the Trackit traceability system. As per the calibration, the field inputTcCertifiedWeightUsed is no longer applicable and has been replaced with inputTcCertifiedRawMaterialWeightUsed.

Access the calibration log here.

To address situations where it is technically challenging to include RDS certified farm group members on scope certificate PDFs, Calibration 280 has been issued to provide clarification.

RDS certified farm group members may be excluded from site listings on scope certificate PDFs, provided that they are included in dTrackit data submissions for the scope certificate. This does not apply to individual farm or farm area certification.

Access the calibration log here.

Requirement E4.3 in the CCS v3.1 asks brands to ensure that certified product sales to other businesses (not consumers) meet the documentation requirements outlined. This calibration clarifies what is considered acceptable to fulfill the requirement.

Brands may now use their Textile Exchange ID (TE-ID) in place of or alongside their license code on invoices or supplementary sales documents. If your invoicing system (such as EDI) does not allow additional certification details, a supplementary sales document may be used to convey this information. Acceptable documents include seasonal product listings, certified style workbooks, or digital documents accessed via a URL included on the invoice.

These documents do not need to be provided with each individual invoice. Instead, they may be issued periodically, such as once per season or per product collection, as long as they are made available no later than 30 days after the invoice date (and may also be provided in advance).

Example: A seasonal product listing sent in April includes the brand’s TE-ID and identifies certified styles. These products are invoiced in July. This document would be sufficient to meet the requirement under CCS-101-V3.1 E4.3.

Access the calibration log here.

Calibration 226 was first published on February 1, 2025. It clarifies the exclusion of additives from the material composition and outlines the methodology for accounting for their presence by weight in the transaction certificates.

In this update, point 8b has been modified. The required data submission syntax varies depending on the method used, so the use of semicolon is not necessarily required on every submission.

Calibration 226 is effective as of March 1, 2025, and should be implemented immediately following that date where possible, with mandatory implementation by July 1, 2025.

Access the calibration log here.

Calibration 220 has been updated and is effective as of March 1, 2025.

The calibration was first issued in 2023 and clarified that when using mixed fibers in raw materials, no material composition test is required to determine the fiber percentages of each fiber present. Instead, the designated mixed fiber codes should be used. These codes are for material recyclers only, and other supply chain operators cannot alter them in output or input transaction certificates, even when the detailed results of a material composition test are available.

A blend of virgin material cannot be defined as "mixed fibers". The mixed-fiber codes are only allowed to be used by recyclers for pre-consumer and post-consumer waste.

The mixed fiber categories RM0258 ("No attribute") and RM0259 ("GOTS") have been removed from Calibration 220, as they were incorrectly included when the calibration was first issued.

No further changes have been made to Calibration 220.

Access the calibration log here.

Textile Exchange is pleased to announce the publication of the TE-TXL-POL-206-V3.0 Complaints Policy. Please note that ASR-110 has been revised and is now released under its new code, TE-TXL-POL-206, and is effective immediately.

The policy outlines how Textile Exchange receives, manages, and addresses complaints and appeals related to Textile Exchange standards, assurance, standards claims, and scheme participants, including certification bodies and accreditation bodies.

This revision clarifies the language and ensures complaints are directed to the appropriate party, refines communication timelines between Textile Exchange, certification bodies and accreditation bodies, and updates terminology for greater accuracy and transparency.

Access the policy here.

This calibration clarifies how the composition of coated, laminated, impregnated, or bonded fabrics, fabrics and yarns with non-textile embellishments (e.g., flock, sequins, beads), and textile products made from them must be specified and claimed, while considering labeling regulations in the country of sale.

The calibration is effective March 1, 2025, with mandatory implementation by July 1, 2025.

Calibration 262 serves as an exception to ASR-104-V3.1 B2.10.6 and B2.11, allowing components of specified non-final products to be listed and claimed. It also permits non-certified components to be listed in Box 10a on the transaction certificate (TC).

The composition must be demonstrated based on components, unless there is a valid justification, for the following:

1. Coated, laminated, impregnated, or bonded fabrics with a film-forming polymeric composition incorporated.
2. Fabrics and yarns that are partially or fully covered with non-textile materials (e.g. flock, sequins, beads).
3. Textile products made from the fabrics and yarns listed above.

Component claims must be made by indicating the material composition of all components of the product in Box 10a, including those that are non-certified. A final product made from the specified fabrics and yarns must use component-based claims, unless:

1. Labeling regulations require a full-product claim in the country of sale; or
2. Non-certified components are treated as trims and do not exceed 10% of the final product.

If the fabric or yarn is sold as a final product (i.e. directly to consumers), existing criteria for final products apply.

EXAMPLE: A 100% recycled post-consumer polyester knitted fabric is coated with PU (polyurethane) film. The coating constitutes 20% by weight of the output product. The product has a net weight of 100 kg.

• Product category: Fabrics (PC0028)
• Product Details: Special Fabrics (PD0063)
• Component 1 in Box 10.a:
• Detail: Base knitted fabric
• Material Composition: 100% Recycled post-consumer polyester (RM0189)
• Net Shipping Weight: 80 kg
• Certified Weight: 80 kg
• Standard (Label Grade): RCS (RCS 100)
• Component 2 in Box 10.a:
• Detail: Coating material
• Material Composition: 100% Polyurethane (RM0210)
• Net Shipping Weight: 20 kg
• Certified Weight: 0 kg
• Standard (Label Grade): na

EXAMPLE: A final product (curtains) is made from fabric with sequins, where the base fabric is RCS certified. The incoming fabric TC shows the sequins as a component. The sequins along with other trims represent less than 10% of the total product weight. The final product is claimed as a whole by entering the total trim amount, including sequins, as supplementary weight.

• Product category: Home Textiles (PC0010)
• Product Details: Curtains (PD0020)
• Material Composition: 100% Recycled post-consumer polyester (RM0189)
• Net Shipping Weight: 215 kg
• Certified Weight: 200 kg
• Supplementary Weight: 15 kg

Access the calibration log here.

Guidance on Trims and 10% Threshold
Previously, there was a lack of clarity regarding the definition of trims and their handling in relation to the 10% threshold under CCS-101-V3.1 D4.4. To address this, we have issued a calibration effective March 1, 2025, with mandatory implementation on July 1, 2025.

Definition of Trims
The calibration clarifies that trims are supplemental decorative or functional items on a product, such as collars, cuffs, buttons, zippers, and labels, which are visible and can be detected without testing (or visible when disassembled). For example, those hidden between layers. Trims differ from packaging materials, as trims remain on the product during consumer use, whereas packaging (e.g., polybags, hangtags) does not. Packaging is excluded from the net weight.

Inclusion in Net Shipping Weight
Trims are included in the net shipping weight as per ASR-104-V3.1 B2.5:

• When Trims ≤ 10% of Product Weight: Non-claimed trims may be excluded from material composition and specified as supplementary weight. Non-textile trims, such as buttons and zippers, should be excluded from the composition unless they are claimed material in which case they should be claimed as components.
• When Trims > 10% of Product Weight: Component claims should be used, or textile-based trims may be included in the material composition to reduce the remaining trim weight to ≤ 10%.

Example:A packaged shirt includes fabric for the main body, pocket, collar, cuffs, buttons, care label, and embroidery. If the trims weigh ≤ 10%, they may be supplementary weight. If > 10%, some textile trims (e.g., cuffs) may be included in the composition. Non-textile trims, such as buttons, are excluded unless claimed.

Access the calibration log here.

Clarification on Margins of Error for Material Composition

ASR-104-V3.1 Policy B2.10.11.d allows for a margin of error of ±3% for blended materials and −2% for non-blended materials. To address discrepancies identified during composition testing mechanically recycled material containing natural fibers, we have issued Calibration 269, effective March 1, 2025, with mandatory implementation by July 1, 2025.

Updated Margins of Error

• Mechanically recycled plant (e.g. cotton) and animal (e.g. wool) fibers: −3% for non-blended materials and ±5% for blended materials containing at least 30% of these fibers.
• Mechanically Recycled Synthetics: Will be addressed in the next policy revision.

Guidance for Transaction Certificates

• If testing discrepancies fall within the allowable margin, the composition stated on the transaction certificate must align with calculated composition. The additional statement, "Composition testing showed variance in material composition within allowable tolerances," must be included.
• Discrepancies exceeding the margin render the material ineligible unless an exemption request to Textile Exchange with supporting analysis is approved.

Exceptions to Exceeding Margins

• Presence of "mixed fibers" where exact content is unknown.
• Trims or isolable fibers used for functional or decorative purposes not reflected in composition tests.

Invoices may differ from the transaction certificate composition within allowable margins due to market-specific legislative requirements. This calibration ensures consistency in addressing testing discrepancies without introducing new testing requirements.

Access the calibration log here.

This calibration is effective as of March 1, with mandatory implementation by July 1, 2025. It provides clarity on the exclusion of additives from the material composition and outlines the methodology for accounting for their presence by weight in the transaction certificates (TCs).

For the purpose of this calibration, additives are defined as non-fiber and non-polymer substances added to textile products to change or improve the properties that exist in the output product. These additives are added directly or together with a carrier polymer.

To support this calibration, two new data fields, "tcProductAdditives" and "tcProductAdditivesWeight", have been created. These fields do not appear on PDF TC at this time but are included in the TC data submission and will be included in the PDF as part of the next major revision to the TC Policy.

Prior to the fabric stage, specific processes may involve the use of considerable amounts of additives, such as pigments, TiO₂, ceramic, charcoal, etc. This may potentially lead to the output weight exceeding the input weight, especially in processes with minimal process loss.

Since additives are not fiber raw materials, they shall be excluded from the material composition. When additives exceed 1% of the net weight, the following shall apply:

• "tcProductInfoAdditional" shall include the text "Additives = X kg", where X is the total weight of additives in kilograms. This should be followed by the name of the additive(s).
• In data submissions, "tcProductAdditives" should contain the name of the additive(s) (separated by a semicolon if more than one).
• In data submissions, "tcProductAdditivesWeight" shall contain the total quantity of the additive(s) in kilograms.

When additives are incorporated using a polymer carrier, the polymer itself shall not be considered an additive, and must be included into the material composition.

In the case of masterbatch use, the pigments may be considered additives, but the polymer in the masterbatch shall not be considered to be an additive. Similarly, for flakes used as a carrier, only the additive should be considered. For simplicity, if the total weight of the masterbatch or flake carrying the additives does not exceed 1% of the net weight, it may be treated as an additive in its entirety.

When an input product includes additives on the input TC, the additives weight shall be ignored in calculating the material composition for the subsequent output TC.

Example: A product has inputs of 950 kg post-consumer polyester and 50 kg polyester masterbatch (40% polyester, 60% pigments), with a 0% loss factor for simplicity.

• Material composition: 98% post-consumer polyester (RM0189) + 2% polyester (RM0186)
• Net weight: 1000 kg
• Certified weight: 950 kg
• tcProductInfoAdditional: "Additives = 30 kg pigments"
• tcProductAdditivesWeight: 30 kg
• tcProductAdditives: pigments

The subsequent TC is based on an input of 1000 kg composed of 98% post-consumer polyester (RM0189) + 2% polyester (RM0186).

Additives used in dyeing, printing, and finishing do not require declaration unless they involve heavy prints such as flock. In these cases, the approach outlined above applies.

Additives in special fabrics (e.g., coating, lamination, impregnation) are treated as components and Calibration 262 applies, while heavy prints and adhesives at the final stage are considered trims and Calibration 268 applies.

Access the calibration log here.

Brands have requested that additional information about animal fiber farm groups be available on transaction certificates (TC), but the current TCs do not support the sharing of this data. Therefore, we have issued a calibration which allows for the farm group(s) to be listed in Box 12 of the TCs using the following formats:

1. "Responsible [fiber type] on this transaction certificate sourced from farm group [Farm group TE-ID] [Optional: Farm group name]."
2. "Responsible [fiber type] in product(s) [product numbers] sourced from farm groups [Farm group 1 TE-ID] [Optional: Farm group 1 name], [Farm group 2 TE-ID] [Optional: Farm group 2 name]."

Conditions for including the above:

• Each input certificate must either name the farm group as seller on the input transaction certificate, or include the declaration specified above.
• All applicable farm groups for the fiber must be listed.
• Products numbers must be identified on the TC unless all the fiber comes from one farm group.

You can include multiple declarations for different products, separated by product details. Certificates issued before this guideline may be updated to add this declaration.

Examples:

• "Responsible wool sourced from farm group TE-12345678 ABC Farming."
• "Responsible mohair in products 1, 2, and 4 sourced from farm groups TE-87654321 and TE-98765432."

Access the calibration log here.

Auditing farm groups for their group management functions typically involves reviewing and controlling documents. However, current procedures (RAF-102-V2.2 and RDS-102-V3.3) do not allow these audits to be conducted remotely. Certification bodies may now audit the group management functions of the ICS for RAF and RDS farm groups remotely. This applies exclusively to group management functions and does not include audits of individual farms or processing and storage facilities.

Access the calibration log here.

Calibration 238, first published in October 2023, clarified that when an organization is GRS certified and wishes to become RCS certified, the certification body may issue an RCS scope certificate for the same scope (including facilities, process categories, etc.) without requiring additional auditing.

A recent update to Calibration 238 specifies that this calibration may be applied only once for a particular certified organization while it holds a GRS scope certification. If the organization wishes to renew the RCS scope in the next certification cycle, a full RCS audit will be required.

Access the calibration log here.

According to section B3.1.7 of the Policy for Scope Certificates (ASR-103 V3.1), brand distribution facilities are required to be listed on SCs issued on or after January 1, 2025. Additionally, previous to January 1st, 2025, brand distribution facilities are not required to be included on a brand’s SC in order to be the consignee on a TC, as per section B2.9.6 of the Policy for Transaction Certificates (ASR-104 V3.1).

In light of the current revision of the Content Claim Standard (CCS V3.1), where aspects of brand certification are being reviewed, Textile Exchange has decided to address the topic of brand distribution facilities via calibration 272. Additionally, we are aware that there has been some confusion as to whether the note in ASR-104 V3.1, section B2.9.6, applies to brand distribution facilities taking possession of non-final products, which the calibration seeks to clarify.

This calibration states that brand distribution facilities are not required to be listed on brand SCs provided they are only taking possession of final products. Section B2.9.6 of ASR-104 will continue to apply to brand distribution facilities which are exclusively taking possession of final products.

Access the calibration log here.

To align with regulatory standards and simplify final product composition calculations, we have issued an optional calibration allowing non-claimed fibers intentionally added in amounts under 5% by weight, to be grouped as “Other Fibers” at the final product stage. This flexibility enables consistency with regulatory terminology and reduces unnecessary complexity in calculations.

Key conditions include:

• Each fiber must comprise less than 5% by weight.
• Only non-claimed fibers (e.g. if there is claimed recycled material, conventional material of the same type may not be labeled as other fiber).
• Applicable only to final products as defined in TE-101.

Raw material code RM0262 with the term "Fibers" or "Fibres" may be used on scope and transaction certificates if these conditions are met. There is no cumulative maximum percentage for such fiber as long as each meets the above conditions. This calibration does not cover unavoidable impurities or unknown fibers, which are addressed under separate calibrations.

There is no cumulative maximum percentage for such fiber as long as each meets the above conditions. However, it is important to note that each organization is responsible for determining whether there are cumulative maximum limits for "Other Fibers" in the regulations which apply to them.

Example: A final product containing "87% Organic Cotton + 4% Polyester + 4% Cotton + 3% Polyamide + 2% Elastane" may be represented on the transaction certificate as one of the followings:

1. 87% Organic Cotton + 4% Polyester + 4% Cotton + 3% Polyamide + 2% Elastane; OR
2. 87% Organic Cotton + 4% Cotton + 9% Other [Fibers]; OR
3. 87% Organic Cotton + 4% Cotton + 7% Other [Fibers] + 2% Elastane (in case needed for label compliance)

Note: 4% Cotton shall not be grouped under "Other Fibres" as it is the same type as organic cotton.

Access the calibration log here.

There has been confusion among accreditation and certification bodies (ABs and CBs) about using Fapiao as supporting documentation for transaction certificates (TCs), with differing views on whether it qualifies as a financial record. The calibration clarifies, under CCS-102 E2.1.1 f, that Fapiao may be treated as a financial record or invoice for TC review, provided its validity is verified through the Chinese government’s online system and the details align with transportation documents. CBs may take additional steps to confirm authenticity, such as re-verifying Fapiao that was submitted as a financial record within 30 days issuance during subsequent audits. This calibration seeks to create consistent and reliable use of Fapiao in the certification processes.

Access the calibration log here.

The OCS-206-V1.4 Global ISO IWA 32:2019 Proficiency Test Initiative has been updated and is effective as of November 1, 2024. It can be accessed publicly through the Textile Exchange Knowledge Center on our website.

This document now aligns with the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA), and Textile Exchange. The IWA 32:2019 method is officially recognized by ISO and has been replaced with ISO/DIN 5354:1 | 2.

This version will be valid until June 30, 2025, when a new ISO method will be introduced.

Access the policy document here.

Previously, certification bodies could accept GOTS-approved chemicals as equivalent to the ZDHC MRSL for GRS chemical criteria; however, this equivalency ended in December 2023, which caused compliance challenges to clients under GRS-201-V4.2 Implementation Manual Section D2.3.

To address this, we have issued a calibration to clarify that certification bodies may still accept GOTS-approved chemicals as an alternative for ZDHC MRSL compliance.

Access the calibration log here.

In some regions, finding ZDHC-approved labs for all required tests is challenging, and some Wastewater Test Reports don't meet GRS Appendix D criteria.

The calibration clarifies that the GRS does not require ZDHC-approved labs. Per GRS V4.0 C2.3e, testing should be done by trained personnel using the correct equipment. The calibration also clarifies the criteria for acceptable independent wastewater lab reports.

Access the calibration log here.

Textile Exchange is committed to building credible, internationally recognized standards that include assurance, monitoring, and evaluation systems. We follow the ISEAL’s Codes of Good Practice to ensure that all processes are robust and transparent.

As part of being ISEAL Code compliant, we are releasing the ASR-229 Standards System Complaints Report, summarizing all complaints received in 2024 up until October 1.

Please note that due to confidentiality reasons, no further details can be provided beyond what is included in this report.

Access the summary report here.

We have updated the ASR-107-V2025.0 Certification Fee Structure which will become mandatory on January 1, 2025.

Most of the updates in this version focus on clarifying existing criteria and do not represent substantial changes to the requirements.

As of January 1, 2025, there will be no annual licensing fees for certification bodies. However, licensed certification bodies will still be eligible for Textile Exchange membership benefits at no additional charge. All other fees remain applicable and unchanged.

Aspects of the policy that remain unchanged include that sites without physical possession only pay fees if they are the main site. Additionally, distribution facilities that exclusively handle final products (PR0048 process category only) are also exempted from fees. This is outlined under criteria B1.1.2.

Please note that Textile Exchange does not charge fees to certification bodies that are passed on to certified organizations. However, certification bodies have their own fee structures, which may include additional fees.

We intentionally minimized the changes for V2025.0 as we will be reviewing and revising our entire fee structure in depth as part of the transition to the Materials Matter standard system. More details will be shared closer to the release of the Materials Matter Standard.

Access the policy here.

No specific policy update and/or calibration issued this month.

We have updated our Standard Setting Procedures, resulting in ASR-102 Version 4.0, effective July 25, 2024. This update includes significant changes to improve the flow of information and reflects recent organizational adjustments.


Key Changes in ASR-102 Update:

1. Improved Structure and Clarity:
   • Clauses have been reorganized for a more efficient flow of information, with slight edits for clarity.
   • New section headers have been added to clearly define topics and facilitate easier navigation through the document.
2. Review Committee Composition:
   • The composition of the review committee responsible for approving International Working Group (IWG) members has been adjusted to align with changes in Textile Exchange's internal organizational structure over the past two years.
3. IWG Member Composition and Differentiation:
   • The composition and number of IWG members have been updated to differentiate between development/revision processes that include environmental and social criteria versus those that do not, such as the Content Claim Standard.
   • Related to this change, a new clause allows the review committee to adjust the composition and number of IWG members based on the nature of the development or revision.
4. Planning and Review Criteria:
   • New clauses have been added to outline the information considered when planning a standard development. This includes reviewing existing standards in the same space for potential alignment, as well as considering stakeholder feedback and analyzing data related to the performance of the current version of the standard.

What This Means for You:

• Certified organizations should review the updated ASR-102 Version 4.0 to understand the new procedures.
• Engage with the updated process for IWG member selection, particularly if your organization is interested in being involved in the development or revision of Textile Exchange standards.

For more detailed information, please refer to the full policy document here.

Audit Methods Policy (ASR 114) was created from content which was previously included in the CCS Certification Procedures (CCS-102-V3.0) and the Policy for Auditing Under Force Majeure Conditions (ASR 109a, now retired) to consolidate key auditing guidance together. Based on guidance from ISEAL, the intent is to harmonize the criteria across Textile Exchange standards and ensure that it is easily accessible to certification bodies and auditors.

Expanding on CCS-102, this policy goes into more depth regarding hybrid and remote audit best practices.

The policy primarily contains existing criteria from within the standards system and best practices identified as recommendations ('should' statements). A six-month timeframe has been allowed to ensure that CBs have enough time to implement the criteria. ASR-114 will replace calibrations # 140 and 237, which will be retired once this document is mandatory on January 1, 2025.

See the policy here.

ASR-225, which was previously entitled "List of Banned Organizations", has now been revised in both title and scope. Previously, ASR-225 primarily served as a reference list of organizations banned from certification to Textile Exchange standards and focused on consolidating general certification eligibility criteria found in other documents. Now, it will serve as the central policy reference for general certification and accreditation eligibility criteria for all Textile Exchange standards.

ASR-225 still contains the list of ineligible entities, which will be updated periodically as needed. As with previous versions, any entity in the 'active bans' table shall be ineligible as of the 'ban issued' date listed.

Limited additional criteria were added in the update of ASR 225. In general, they were already the intent or required per existing policies and/or contracts and are enforceable under this policy.

Existing criteria related to general certification eligibility (not material or scope specific) that exist in other documents will be removed or replaced by a reference to ASR-225 Certification Eligibility Policy and List of Banned Entities upon the next revision of that document. All additional certification eligibility criteria (e.g. material or standard specific) found in other documents continue to apply.

This policy is effective (may be used as of) July 1, 2024, and becomes mandatory October 1, 2024.

Access the policy here.

Textile Exchange is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all stakeholders involved in the standards system. We have updated our ASR-109 Policy for Auditing Under Force Majeure Conditions to Version 2.1, effective July 1, 2024. This update aims to provide clarity and guidance on how certification activities will be managed under extraordinary circumstances.

Key Updates and Changes:

1. Policy Consolidation and Update Timeline:
   • The new policy consolidates previous guidance documents related to force majeure conditions, specifically those previously issued in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, into a single, streamlined document.
   • The updated policy, ASR-109-V2.1, becomes effective on July 1, 2024. All audits and assessments conducted on or after October 1, 2024, must adhere to this policy.
2. Identification of Force Majeure Conditions:
   • Force majeure is defined as unforeseen event or circumstance disrupting normal business operations. This includes public health directives, travel restrictions, organizational shutdowns, extreme weather conditions, and other significant disruptions.
   • Specific criteria have been outlined to identify force majeure conditions, such as public health advisories, travel bans, and organizational access restrictions.
3. Alternative Auditing Methods:
   • Certification bodies are permitted to use alternative auditing methods, including remote and hybrid audits, when standard auditing is not feasible provided the applicable criteria of ASR-109-V2.1 are met.
   • Extensions to scope certificate validity and deferred on-site audits are permitted under certain conditions without requiring prior approval from Textile Exchange provided the applicable criteria of ASR-109-V2.1 are met.
4. Risk Assessment and Auditing:
   • A detailed risk assessment methodology has been provided to determine the frequency and intensity of audits under force majeure conditions.
   • Certified organizations and subcontractors will be audited based on their risk level, ensuring that safety and compliance are maintained without unnecessary disruptions.
5. Certification Body Reporting and Exemptions:
   • Certification bodies must maintain detailed records of all audits conducted under force majeure conditions, including the auditing method used and the reasons for any deviations.
   • Provisions for requesting exemptions for extended audit delays or alternative methods have been clearly defined.
6. Additional Provisions:
   • The policy outlines specific conditions for the issuance of transaction certificates, closure of non-conformities, and auditor qualifications under force majeure conditions.
   • Provisions for managing accreditation and grace periods, as well as conducting unannounced audits, have been updated to ensure flexibility and conformity.
   
   
   What This Means for You:
   • Certified organizations should familiarize themselves with the updated policy and be prepared for potential changes in auditing schedules and methods should force majeure conditions arise.
   • Ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of the new guidelines and that your organization is ready to cooperate with certification bodies in implementing alternative auditing methods when necessary.
   • Maintain open communication with your certification body to address any concerns or requests for exemptions promptly.
   
   
   

   For more detailed information, please refer to the full policy document available on our website, or contact your certification body directly.

The RAF standards contain mandatory criteria related to animal and land management plans as well as declarations from external workers hired by the farm.

These criteria are designated as Major criteria, which results in some farm groups to be assigned a medium risk level and consequently a bigger sample size to be audited which increases the inspection cost.

While these criteria are important and shall be kept as Major criteria, they do not justify the higher risk designation.

Therefore, a calibration has been made in RAF-102 - Certification Procedures for Criterion D2.4.4.C, where the following bold/italic text has been added: No major non-conformities were issued for the scope certificate in the past year including during the previous audit except for criteria AW3.2, AW5.11.1, and LM2.1 in all RAF standards, i.e. RAF-101a-v2.2, RAF-101b-V1.2, and RAF-101c-V1.0.

This calibration means that non-conformities for the listed criteria above, do not prevent a low-risk score for the audited site.

Access the calibration log here.

Greasy wool, classified under the product category PC0045 (Unprocessed non-reclaimed fibers/materials), has traditionally been traded on EXW terms and stored at the seller's facility. This category has recently been incorporated into the ASR-213-V1.3 standard and also needed to be addressed in ASR-104-V3.1 - Policy for Transaction Certificates.

ASR-104-V3.1 A8.3.3.d now includes PC0045 alongside other categories.

Access the calibration log here.

Currently, the Content Claim Standard 3.1(CCS-101-V3.1 D5.4.1 and CCS-102-V3.1 D2.1.2.a, E2.1.1.f) requires the Animal Fiber Industry to have certain formal financial documents to be reviewed during/after the audit, which are not always available in their commercial practices.

Calibration 263 states that financial records standards in CCS-101-V3.1 D5.4.1 and CCS-102-V3.1 D2.1.2.a, E2.1.1.f are no longer needed for product categories: PC0032 - tops, PC0034 - undyed fibers, and PC0045 - unprocessed non-reclaimed fibers/materials, when the raw materials are limited to the following specific types:

• RM0003 - organic alpaca
• RM0007 - responsible alpaca
• RM0060 - organic mohair
• RM0064 - responsible mohair
• RM0079 - organic wool, and
• RM0083 - responsible wool

Access the calibration log here.

As per the latest Policy for Transaction Certificates, certification bodies are required to only use the Textile Exchange Authenticate a Transaction webpage (dTrackit) or another method provided by Textile Exchange to authenticate transaction certificates as of January 2024.

It is unclear if brands are expected to authenticate their incoming transaction certificates via the same means when they are making claims, since an outgoing transaction certificate is not required at the brand level.

If a transaction certificate is missing from the Textile Exchange Authenticate a Transaction webpage (dTrackit), the brand is not required to consider this a doubt regarding the validity of the claims, provided that the transaction certificate can be authenticated with the issuing certification body (e.g. via QR code).

If the input transaction certificate is not on the Textile Exchange Authenticate a Transaction webpage (dTrackit), no output transaction certificate (e.g. from brand to retailer) is possible.

Access the calibration log here.

Calibration 251 outlined cases where the consignee did not need to be a facility on a certified buyer's scope certificate, as required by ASR-104-V3.1 B2.9.6.b, if one of the 6 incoterms listed in the calibration were used.

FAS has been added to incoterms in the original calibration. The total list now includes: FCA, CPT, CIP, FAS, FOB, CFR, and CIF. The calibration update also clarifies that a reference to the shipment number is included if it is not the same for all shipments on the TC. Additionally, if the exact port facility is not known when the TC is issued, the port itself may be a consignee.

For an Incoterm of EXW, see ASR-104-V3.1 B2.9.6.c. Incoterms of DAP, DPU, and DDP, as well as sales that are not conducted according to an Incoterm are not covered by this calibration.

Textile Exchange recognizes that there is feedback from the industry on the overall definition and use of the term consignee. This has been flagged for review in the next revision of ASR-104 Transaction Certificate Policy, which governs the term consignee. In the meantime, feedback and case studies from industry stakeholders will be collected and incorporated into the policy revision process.

Access the calibration log here.

According to the section B2.2.3 in the Policy for Transaction Certificates, if the seller on a TC is not the certified organization (the main site specified on the scope certificate), the name of the certified organization (sellerCertifiedOrganizationName) shall be specified beside “Selling on behalf of”. Similar criteria apply for the buyer (B2.3.3).

There has been ambiguity around what the sellerTeId and buyerTeId fields on a TC refer to – whether it denotes the facility conducting the sale/purchase or the certified organization (main site specified on the scope certificate of the seller/buyer). The field sellerTeId shall always include a valid TE-ID and the field buyerTeId shall always include a valid TE-ID if the buyer is certified.

The fields sellerTeId and buyerTeId should include the TE-IDs of the facilities listed as the seller/buyer on the TC. It is also acceptable to include the TE-IDs of the certified organizations which the seller/buyer is conducting the sale/purchase on behalf of. The dTrackit system is able to connect a facility's TE-ID back to the certified organization.

Access the calibration log here.

ASR-213 Materials, Processes & Products Classification has been revised to include minor updates. It now contains categories and codes that previously existed within calibrations but have been incorporated into the policy.

• Code updates in Table 3.1- Raw Materials Classification: Additionally, "Protein" was moved between categories though codes did not change. A duplicated listing of "wood" was removed.
• Addition of "Mixed down and feather" as Raw Material in Table 3.1.
• Code updates in Table 3.2- Process Category Classification: Additionally, "Grading" has been added as Process Category.
• Codes in Section 3.2.6.4 have been corrected: PR0048 is now PR0031 and PR0031 is now PR0048.
• Table 3.3: Product Category Classification: Addition of Product Categories "Unprocessed non-reclaimed fibers/materials" and Processed pre- and post-consumer materials.
• Appendix A - Raw Materials Mapping:
  • Addition of "Mixed down and feather", "Grease", "Leather", "Shearling" and "Animal Fiber Other" to Animal Classification.
  • Addition of "Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)", "Synthetic rubber", "Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)", "Thermoplastic rubber (TPR)" to Synthetic Classification.
  • Addition of "Diacetate" to Cellulosic Classification.
  • Addition of "Protein" and "wood" to Miscellaneous Classification.

It should be noted that ASR-213 reflects what inputs are allowed for use in the standards system. It does not define eligibility for standards such as the GRS or RCS. An update of the GRS-202: Textile Exchange Guide to Recycled Inputs, the document that defines such eligibility will take place in 2024.

See the policy here.

No specific policy update and/or calibration issued this month.

According to section B2.9.6.b in ASR-104-V3.1, a consignee must be a facility on a buyer's scope certificate if the buyer is certified. In response to identifying situations where this criterion is not workable, Calibration 251 was issued on March 1st. It was effective immediately upon publication and is mandatory no later than July 1, 2024.

The calibration states that a facility which is not named on the buyer’s scope certificate may be listed as a consignee provided that one of the 6 incoterms mentioned in the calibration are used. These are FCA, CPT, CIP, FOB, CFR, and CIF.

The buyer’s certification body must review transport documentation from the consignee to the buyer's facility either as part of issuing the subsequent transaction certificate or on a sampling basis as part of the next audit of the buyer (e.g. when the buyer is a brand and does not obtain outgoing transaction certificates).

If the buyer on a transaction certificate is a certified trader who does not take physical possession of the product, the consignee must match the consignee listed on the trader's outgoing transaction certificate.

Incoterms®2020 are critical to understanding this calibration. More information about Incoterms including definitions for each individual Incoterm may be found at https://www.trade.gov/know-your-incoterms.

Access the calibration log here.

We have published several new translations of standards documents, which are available publicly in our website Knowledge Center and directly via the links below:

OCS-101-V3.0-TR Organic Content Standard - Turkish (Türkçe).

Other previously published translations are available publicly in the Knowledge Center and through this post on The Hub shared within the Standards Stakeholder Community.

Although these are official translations by Textile Exchange, please note that the English version of each document takes precedence in case of any contradiction or discrepancy between versions.

We have published several new translations of standards documents, which are available publicly in our website Knowledge Center and directly via the links below:

RCS-101-V2.0-TR Recycled Claim Standard - Turkish (Türkçe)

Other previously published translations are available publicly in the Knowledge Center and through this post on The Hub shared within the Standards Stakeholder Community.

Although these are official translations by Textile Exchange, please note that the English version of each document takes precedence in case of any contradiction or discrepancy between versions.

We have published several new translations of standards documents, which are available publicly in our website Knowledge Center and directly via the links below:

CCS-201-V3.1-CN CCS User Manual - Chinese (中文)

Other previously published translations are available publicly in the Knowledge Center and through this post on The Hub shared within the Standards Stakeholder Community.

Although these are official translations by Textile Exchange, please note that the English version of each document takes precedence in case of any contradiction or discrepancy between versions.

The ASR-106 policy, or the Accepted Equivalent Standards Policy, has been updated and is effective on April 1, 2024, and mandatory on July 1, 2024.

The main updates in this policy were to ensure the GOTS references were based on the most recent versions, GOTS 6.0 and GOTS 7.0.

There are additional references that CB data submissions must be sent via the methods previously approved by Textile Exchange.

These references detail that CBs receive automatic confirmation from Textile Exchange that documentation has been successfully submitted. No further confirmation is required from Textile Exchange in order for the CB to issue the relevant TC if the TC application is considered complete by the CB.

Lastly, the criteria allowances for GOTS sites wanting to add OCS SCs to their scope which expired in June of 2023 were removed for clarity.

Access the policy here.

The OCS-105 policy, or OCS In-Conversion Policy, has been updated and is effective April 1, 2024.

The primary update is removing the end date of the policy, which was previously June 30th, 2024. No new end date has been included in the policy, meaning the allowance for in-conversion material in OCS supply chains may continue indefinitely.

There are additional references that CB data submissions must be sent via the methods previously approved by Textile Exchange.

These references detail that CBs receive automatic confirmation from Textile Exchange that documentation has been successfully submitted. No further confirmation is required from Textile Exchange in order for the CB to issue the relevant TC if the TC application is considered complete by the CB.

The OCS is planned to undergo a revision in 2024, and we will revisit all related policies, including OCS-105, to determine if changes are necessary to align with the revised standard.

Access the policy here .

Per CCS-101-V3.1-C5.1, a subcontractor shall not have common ownership with the contracting organization, thus the contracting organization is not permitted to list a facility under common ownership as an associated subcontractor.

In response to requests arising from various factors such as geographic considerations and differences in certification bodies, Calibration 252 allows an independently certified subcontractor under common ownership with the contracting organization to be listed as an independently certified subcontractor under the contracting organization's scope certificate.

According to CCS-102-D3.4.1, the independently certified subcontractor shall not be audited as part of the contracting organization’s audit.

Textile Exchange encourages sites under common ownership to be included under the same scope certificate (preferred) or separate scope certificates with the same certification body where workable.

Access the calibration log here.

Textile Exchange has issued a Policy for a Moratorium on Farm Area Certification in the RDS effective on March 1, 2024. The moratorium proposes a gradual phase-out of the Farm Area Certification. In practice, this means:

• From the effective date of the policy, no new RDS Farm Area applications are accepted for organizations that wish to become certified to the Responsible Down Standard 3.0, under Section E - Farm Area Certification;
• Certified organizations that currently hold or previously held farm area certification in the past year (2023) are allowed to renew certified farm areas, with the caveat that no new farm areas can be added;
• Small slaughter sites must adhere to all the requirements of the Responsible Down Standard 3.0 Section B4 Slaughter Certification and must undergo annual audits by the certification body.

See policy document here.

The RDS-102, or the RDS Certification Procedures, was revised to reflect the updated criteria in the RDS-105 Policy for a Moratorium on Farm Area Certification, effective on March 1, 2024.

See policy document here.

In some jurisdictions, consumer protection laws may prohibit the use of the “chasing arrows” or Mobius loop symbol on products that are not recyclable. The current GRS and RCS logos include this symbol and, as a result, may not be allowed for use in some product-related claims.

Calibration 254 was issued to provide flexibility for GRS and RCS product-related claims, by allowing the exclusion of the relevant Standard logo and the use of a text claim only.

Access the calibration log here.

This quick guide serves as an introductory resource for brands interested in adopting the eTrackit system. The document offers an overview of the eTrackit system, outlines the eligibility requirements to use eTrackit, and assists in mapping the necessary steps for successful onboarding.

Access the eTrackit Quick Guide for Brands here.

The implementation of the Textile Exchange-ID (TE-ID) in early 2024 requires some clarification.

Textile Exchange is providing Certification Bodies (CBs) with lists of pre-assigned TE-IDs for facilities listed in dTrackit on a Scope Certificate (SC) in three batches. Based on this, the calibration provides clarifications for the implementation of the TE-ID in the first quarter of 2024.

Additionally, when an organization registers to create or claim their TE-ID, there can be a delay of up to 14 calendar days before the TE-ID is provided.

Click here for more guidance on TE-ID.

Access the calibration log here.

TE-ID will be used to identify a facility in Textile Exchange's database, replacing the requirement of using the license number and the name of the responsible Certification Body (CB) for all assured claims. Therefore, there will be an extended period during which claims can use either license number accompanied by the CB's name or solely the organization's TE-ID. Currently, it is an option to use TE-ID or the license number when making claims.

Once the Standards Claims Policy is updated to align with the unified standard development, TE-ID will be required with assured claims. The use of license number and the CB's name will be allowed on claims only for the remaining lifespan of the current standards.

Access the calibration log here.