GOTS certified

The GOTS certificate ensures that materials used are completely organic, and the manufacturing process is as sustainable as possible. A number of our shrouds have been awarded this certificate.

The textile production chain

Before we tell you anything about certification, it is good to know which steps textiles go through before they become a shroud. The production chain consists of harvesting the raw materials, responsible production, labelling, the packaging process and distribution. All facets of this chain must, independently of each other, comply with the standard for organic textiles. 

GOTS certified. What are the requirements?

The GOTS certificate is very similar to the EKO label in terms of enforcement of environmental requirements:

• Environmentally friendly chemicals in the harvesting and production process;
• Economical use of water and energy;
• Water purification inside the factories;
• Raw materials must be 100% organic. There is one exception to this rule. Producers who are in the process of switching to 100% organic may also call their products GOTS certified. This is to support this development. These companies are then 'in conversion'. They may use the label when their products contain at least 70% organic fibres.

Good working conditions

In addition to environmentally friendly criteria, the GOTS certificate also sets requirements regarding working conditions. These requirements are based on the standards of the International Labour Organization. These are some of the regulations:

• The work is done of free will;
• The right to freedom of association and collective bargaining is respected;
• Working conditions are safe and hygienic;
• No child labor is used;
• The salary falls within the minimum wage;
• No excessive working hours;
• There is no discrimination;
• Regular work is provided;
• Mistreatment or inhumane treatment of personnel is prohibited.

Management of the GOTS label

The GOTS label is managed by several organisations: the International Association Natural Textile Industry (IVN) from Germany, the Soil Association (SA) from England, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) from America and the Japan Organic Cotton Association (JOCA). Together, these parties are called the 'International Working Group' (IWG).

Our GOTS certified shrouds

The Soft shroud is one of our GOTS-certified shrouds. Our supplier meets all the requirements and regulations of the quality mark. The flannel of this shroud is woven from unbleached organic cotton. This cotton is roughened on both sides, which makes the fabric feel particularly soft. The cotton is unbleached, which gives it the characteristic warm cotton colour. The Denim shroud, the Canvas shroud and the Basic shroud (only available in our complete funeral sets) have a GOTS certificate. These three shrouds are made of organically grown cotton. Our supplier has worked hard to meet the requirements of the quality mark. The Basic shroud is made of one piece of soft molton, which means it does not have a seam in the middle.

A fitting carrier

Do you also want to make an organic choice for a carrier? Have a look at our Willow carrier, made of willow branches, our Willow shell, and our Comfort carrier.These carriers are made of unsprayed Dutch wicker. The production of these wicker is not harmful to the environment, as we only use pruning wood. These carriers are produced in an authentic way in a traditional basketry in the Netherlands. Our weavers have a huge passion for their profession and this is reflected in their products.