Introduction To The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) Certificate

What is the GRS Certificate?

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an international, voluntary, full product standard that sets requirements for third-party certification of recycled content, chain of custody, social and environmental practices, and chemical restrictions. The aim of the GRS is to increase the use of recycled materials in products and reduce or eliminate the harm caused by its production.

Key Features of the GRS Certificate

1. Recycled Content:

• The GRS ensures that products contain genuine recycled content. This includes both pre-consumer and post-consumer material. The standard requires thorough documentation and verification to confirm the origin and       quantity of recycled content in the final product.

2. Chain of Custody:

• The GRS requires a robust chain of custody system to track the recycled material through all stages of production, from the recycler to the final product.  This ensures that the recycled content claims are reliable and traceable.

3. Environmental Requirements:

• The GRS sets strict environmental criteria for certified products. This includes measures to manage and reduce

• energy consumption, water use, wastewater and air emissions, as well as waste management. Certified facilities must also implement environmental management systems to monitor and improve their environmental performance continuously.

4. Social Requirements:

• The GRS mandates compliance with fundamental social principles. This includes ensuring fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and the rights of workers. Facilities must adhere to the International Labour       Organization’s (ILO) core conventions, which cover issues like forced labor, child labor, and discrimination.

5. Chemical Restrictions:

• The GRS includes stringent chemical management criteria to ensure that harmful chemicals are not used in the production of certified products. This involves compliance with restricted substance lists and the       implementation of proper chemical management practices throughout the supply chain.

Benefits of the GRS Certificate

1. Market Recognition:

• Products with the GRS certificate are recognized globally as meeting high standards for recycled content and sustainable production. This enhances the brand image and marketability of the products.

2. Consumer Trust:

• The GRS certification provides consumers with assurance that the products they purchase are made from genuine recycled materials and produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

3. Regulatory Compliance:

• GRS certification helps businesses comply with regulatory requirements related to recycled content and sustainability, which are increasingly becoming mandatory in many regions.

4. Sustainability Goals:

• The GRS supports companies in achieving their sustainability goals by providing a clear and credible framework for verifying recycled content and sustainable practices.

5. Operational Improvements:

• Implementing the GRS standards can lead to operational improvements, including better resource management, reduced waste, and enhanced environmental and social performance.

Conclusion

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certificate is a comprehensive and credible standard that promotes the use of recycled materials in products while ensuring adherence to high environmental and social criteria. By obtaining GRS certification, companies can enhance their sustainability credentials, meet regulatory requirements, and gain consumer trust, all while contributing to a more sustainable and responsible global supply chain.