3rd Party Verification

GLOBAL ORGANIC TEXTILE STANDARD (GOTS)

 

In December 2014, Maggie’s received certification to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).  GOTS is the leading worldwide textile processing standard for organic fibers, including ecological and social criteria, backed up by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain.  The standard covers the processing, manufacturing, packaging, labelling, trading and distribution of all textiles made from at least 70% certified organic natural fibers.  The aim of the standard is to ensure organic status of textiles, from harvesting of the raw materials, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labelling. View our certified supplier listing on the GOTS website.

 

 

FREE2WORK


In 2012 the U.S. Department of State funded a study entitled: Apparel Industry Trends: From Farm to Factory.  This study rated 300 apparel brands on their efforts to address child and forced labor in their supply chains, workers’ rights, monitoring and traceability.  Maggie’s achieved the #1 ranking of all 300 brands included in the study.  Learn more here.  A complete copy of our free2work study is available upon request.  Please email amief@organicclothes.com if you are interested in more information.

 

 

Fair Trade Federation


In 2014, Maggie’s Organics was invited to apply for membership in the Fair Trade Federation.  The Fair Trade Federation envisions a just and sustainable global economic system in which purchasing and production choices are made with the concern for the well-being of people and the environment, creating a world where all people have viable economic options to meet their own needs. The Federation is part of the global fair trade movement building equitable and sustainable trading partnerships and creating opportunities to alleviate poverty.  To become a member, applicants go through a rigorous screening process detailing each stage of production for every product made.  A screening committee made up of peers and other stake-holders vets each applicant relative to working conditions, fair wages, safety, environmental sensitivity, financial transparency and more.  Completion of this review process provides an important mark of distinction for members and for shoppers interested in supporting an entire business for its fair trade practices rather than simply purchasing a fair trade product.

 

“Maggie’s Organics submitted an extremely thorough application to the screening committee, which speaks really well to their deep commitment to fair trade,” says Renee Bowers, Executive Director of the Fair Trade Federation.  “We commend the way Maggie’s Organics evaluates and reevaluates their fair trade practices as an important part of their business.  We’re so thrilled to have them in the FTF community!”

 

The main principle behind fair trade is to give farmers and producers all over the world the opportunity to earn a living by selling their products in North America and beyond.  Relationships between consumer, traders, and producers are formed honoring the 9 Fair Trade principles which focus on fair wages, worker safety, transparency, and more.  Read about all 9 principles at fairtradefederation.org/principles.