Sustainable Interior Styling Guide and Design Directory 1 | Page 33

CARBON NEUTRAL PRODUCT CERTIFICATION This program requires an initial carbon audit in the form of a Life Cycle Analysis - a comprehensive carbon audit which calculates the CO2 emissions used in raw materials, fuel & electricity and waste used in the production and distribution of that product. GREEN TICK Independent sustainability certification of products, services, and corporations based on a life-cycle audit of performance against the Green Tick Sustainability Standards. It also certifies for Climate- Friendly, Natural, GE-Free, Organic & Fair Trader brands. GLOBAL ORGANIC TEXTILE STANDARD This organization sets the standard for certifying organic fibres and also focuses on environmental and social standards within the textile industry. It prohibits the employment of children and the use of genetically modified organisms and highly dangerous chemicals. Strict requirements are placed for waste-water treatment as well. OEKO-TEX (International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Ecology). Oeko-Tex uses a multi-point certification and independent vetting process to ensure that a particular textile has met their strict sustainable requirements. They score based on laboratory tests that ensure the fabric is free from harmful, toxic substances. RESPONSIBLE DOWN STANDARD (RDS) This animal-welfare organization certifies both independent and industrial farms in the feather-down industry. The certification ensures that geese or ducks aren’t “live plucked” and that conditions are humane for the animals. FAIR TRADE This group aims to protect the lives of cotton farmers all over the world. It stands for fixed minimum prices for cotton and helps improve the living and working conditions for farmers. GOODWEAVE GoodWeave aims to end the practice of child slave labor in the rug and weaving industries in India, Nepal, and Afghanistan. The organisation helps rescue these children and give them opportunities to continue their education. Look for rugs with the GoodWeave symbol for assurance that you’re purchasing a product that wasn’t made using child labour. 33