ZURICH – Chemical management specialist Oeko-Tex has linked up with environmental organisation Global Nature Fund to advance its efforts in safeguarding biodiversity.
Together, the two organisations have developed the ‘Businesses for biological diversity’ project which analyses biodiversity aspects at textile production level, including the development of specific criteria for the Oeko-Tex STeP facility certification.
Carolin Franitza, stakeholder manager at Oeko-Tex, said: “Healthy ecosystems are a vital foundation for environmentally responsible and sustainable textile and leather production. They are essential for long-term economic stability and success.
“Our partnership aims to raise awareness of biodiversity within the industry and provide practical guidance.”
As part of the ‘UBi project: Engaging German companies for biodiversity‘, Global Nature Fund, in cooperation with the Lake Constance Foundation, reviewed relevant standards and certifications in the textile and apparel industry to assess the extent to which they include effective requirements for the protection of biodiversity.
The criteria and requirements were evaluated for their effectiveness in safeguarding biological diversity, their weighting within certification systems, and their transparency and verifiability.
The findings were discussed with standard setters, textile companies and other specialists, leading to joint recommendations on how biodiversity can be better integrated in future.
As part of its annual revision, Oeko-Tex, together with the Global Nature Fund, has updated its Oeko-Tex STeP requirements based on these insights with the revised regulations coming into effect this month.
The updated standard highlights sustainable raw material sourcing and the protection of natural habitats, while also addressing practices that contribute to biodiversity loss.
Going forward, Oeko-Tex STeP certified production sites will also be required to implement biodiversity management plans, set specific targets and provide regular reporting.
Alisia Mätz, product manager at Oeko-Tex, said: “Even today, Oeko-Tex STeP certified facilities have made remarkable progress in reducing their environmental impact.
“This includes measures such as water management, wastewater recycling, the use of environmentally friendly chemicals, and the prevention of soil and air pollution.”
