The Global Organic Textile Standard will hold its first International Conference in Mumbai, India, on May 22.
The theme for the inaugural GOTS summit is “Strong Partnerships for Success,” with companies representing the entire organic textile supply chain providing information on brand and manufacturer experiences with GOTS, as well as the role of local and international policy.
India is the largest producer of organic cotton, with about 70 percent of world production. It is also home to the largest number of GOTS-certified processing facilities, with more than 1,300 such sites representing 35 percent of GOTS-certified facilities worldwide.
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“We are looking forward to educating and stimulating the textile world about GOTS, and providing vital networking opportunities from the epicenter of the organic textile world,” said Sumit Gupta, conference coordinator and GOTS representative in India and Bangladesh.
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The participation of leading brands, suppliers and the Indian government is expected to provide strong networking and commercial opportunities. The conference will include information on the GOTS Water-Energy Tool, its audit checklist and methodology, testing nuances, and industry perspectives on benefits and difficulties. Panel discussions are planned for “Brand Expectations from Organic Textiles” and “Transcending the Supply Chain for Organic Textiles.”
GOTS is the globally recognized standard in ecology and social responsibility for the processing of textiles made from at least 70 percent certified organic natural fibers. The stringent voluntary global standard addresses the post-harvest processing, including spinning, knitting, weaving, dyeing and manufacturing of textiles made with organic fibers, such as organic cotton and wool. Key provisions include a ban on the use of genetically modified organisms, a restricted substance list and ban on child labor, while requiring strong social compliance management systems and strict waste water treatment practices.