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What are GRS & RCS?
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and the Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) constitute the leading international voluntary standards for verifying the presence and amount of recycled material in a final product. Managed by the Textile Exchange, both standards utilize a rigorous Chain of Custody model to track recycled raw materials from the source to the final product.
Core Purpose: To provide a credible third-party verification system that proves materials are genuinely recycled, thereby eliminating “greenwashing” and ensuring supply chain transparency.
Primary Objective:
- RCS: Focuses strictly on the traceability of recycled inputs through the supply chain.
- GRS: Includes the same traceability requirements as RCS but extends its scope to include rigorous social working conditions, environmental management, and chemical restrictions.
Applicability: Essential for manufacturers and brands in the textile, plastic, metal, and paper industries who wish to market their products as “Recycled” to global consumers.
Benefits
Stop Greenwashing: These certificates prove your product is actually made from recycled materials. It stops customers from doubting your claims.
Sell to Big Brands: Major global brands (like H&M, Nike, and Adidas) and large retailers require suppliers to have GRS or RCS certification. You cannot sell to them without it.
Higher Product Value: Certified recycled products can often be sold at a higher price because they are premium and sustainable.
Verify Social Responsibility (GRS Only): GRS certification proves you treat your workers fairly and handle chemicals safely, which attracts ethical investors.
Full Traceability: You get a system that tracks every kilogram of material. You know exactly where your raw materials came from and where they went.
The Certification Process
Step 1: Gap Analysis
We inspect your facility to check your current system. We decide whether RCS (recycled content only) or GRS (recycled content + social/environmental) is better for your business.
Step 2: Awareness Training
We train your team on “Chain of Custody.” We explain how to keep recycled materials separate from non-recycled materials so they do not get mixed up.
Step 3: Document Support
We help you prepare the tracking documents. This includes your Mass Balance records, volume reconciliation (Input vs. Output), and chemical lists (for GRS).
Step 4: Internal Audit & MRM
We do a “practice run” audit. We check if your numbers match: if you bought 100kg of recycled plastic, did you produce 100kg of product? We fix any calculation errors.
Step 5: Final Audit
An external Certification Body (CB) visits your factory. They check your production floor, interview workers (for GRS), and audit your sales/purchase records.
Step 6: Success!
Upon passing the audit, your company is awarded the Scope Certificate (SC). You can now issue Transaction Certificates (TCs) to your buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between RCS and GRS?
A:
- RCS: Only tracks recycled material. (Easier to get).
- GRS: Tracks recycled material PLUS checks for safe chemicals, fair labor rights, and environmental pollution. (Harder to get, but more valuable).
Q: How much recycled content do I need?
A:
- RCS: Product must have at least 5% recycled content.
- GRS: Product must have at least 20% recycled content (but you need 50% if you want to use the GRS Logo on the product).
Q: What is a Transaction Certificate (TC)?
A: A Scope Certificate (SC) proves your company is certified. A Transaction Certificate (TC) is like a “receipt” for a specific shipment. Every time you sell goods to a client, you must issue a TC to prove that specific batch is recycled.
Q: Does every company in the supply chain need certification?
A: Yes. From the recycler to the spinner, weaver, and final garment maker—everyone must be certified. If one link in the chain is missing, the final product cannot be labeled GRS/RCS.
Q: Do I need to apply for both GRS and RCS, or can I choose just one?
A: You usually choose just one, depending on your goals. If you only want to prove your materials are recycled, choose RCS (it is simpler). If you want the “premium” label that proves your materials are recycled AND that your factory is socially and environmentally responsible, choose GRS.
Q: How long does the certificate last?
A: The Scope Certificate is valid for 1 year. You must be audited every year to renew it.
Track Record — Successful Clients：
Here are some of the brands and factories we have guided to full certification: