GRS (Global Recycling Standard) and RCS (Recycling Declaration Standard) certification

October 21, 2019

The GRS Global Recycling Standard and the RCS Recycling Declaration Standard are both developed by textile trading organizations and are both focused on recycling certification.

GRS certification

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary, and comprehensive product standard that establishes third-party certification requirements for recycled ingredients, chain of custody, social responsibility and environmental practices, and restricted use conditions of chemicals. GRS certification covers the entire supply chain from raw material collection to final product manufacturing, including textile and apparel, chemical plastics, household goods and many other industry sectors.

The goal of GRS is to increase the use of recycled raw materials in products while reducing or eliminating the harm caused by their production process. The GRS certification applies to any product containing 20% or more recycled ingredients. 50% or more of the recycled ingredients are required to attach the GRS label to the product.

RCS certification

RCS (Recycled Claimed Standard) is an environmental certification standard that ensures traceability and transparency of recycled products and materials. The standard was developed by the Global Recycling Standards Organization (GRS) to promote a circular economy, encouraging companies to adopt sustainable production practices and reduce waste and pollution. Through RCS certification, companies can demonstrate the commitment and efforts of their products in terms of environmental protection and sustainability, thus winning the trust of consumers and recognition of the market.

RCS certification focuses on the content and regulation of recycled materials. Applies to any product containing 5% or more recycled ingredients.

GRS and RCS certification similarities

Both GRS and RCS certifications are developed by textile trading organizations and both focus on recycling certifications. Both certifications are usually valid for one year, during which time the certification body will conduct periodic monitoring and audits to ensure that the enterprise continues to meet the requirements of the certification.

Both GRS and RCS use the ISO 14021 definition of regeneration content and are interpreted based on the US Federal Trade Commission Green Guidelines. The aim is to comply with the most widely accepted and strictest definitions.

The difference between GRS and RCS certification

GRS can be said to be the advanced version of RCS:

◆RCS products can use GRS certified raw materials, but GRS products can not use RCS raw materials.

◆GRS applies to products containing 20% or more recycled ingredients, and RCS applies to any product containing 5% or more recycled ingredients.

GRS requires consideration of corporate environmental (such as energy and water use, waste management, etc.) and social responsibilities, but RCS does not require it.

◆GRS certification has provisions for the use of chemicals in the process, but RCS does not require it.

◆ The two have different certification labels.

Author:

Ms. Jenny Wang

E-mail:

jenny.wang@ceetomold.com

Phone/WhatsApp:

+86 18868925013