GOTS was created to help build more transparency in the textile supply chain. It can be a daunting task to try and figure out how your textiles were produced and where they came from. GOTS certification helps create a global standard for textile practices in regards to harvesting, processing, and manufacturing.
When talking about GOTS certified dyes, this means that the dyes used are low impact- there are no toxic chemicals or heavy metals used in the dye process, they require less water, and the water used to dye is treated and purified after use. Using organic GOTS dyes is important because most dyes used today are still Azo dyes, which are carcinogenic, mutagenic (meaning they disrupt the DNA in a cell), and do not break down easily, allowing them to enter our waterways. I work with a GOTS certified dye-house called Classy Dye, based in Los Angeles, California.
According to the GOTS website: "The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) was developed by leading standard setters to define world-wide recognized requirements for organic textiles. From the harvesting of the raw materials, environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing to labelling, textiles certified to GOTS provide a credible assurance to the consumer."
You can read more about all of this on their site here.
