As global demand for sustainable products grows, more companies are turning to independent certifications that prove their commitment to recycled materials and responsible production. One of the most widely recognized standards today is GRS Certification, short for Global Recycled Standard.
If your business deals with recycled plastics, textiles, packaging, metals, or sustainable products, understanding and obtaining GRS certification can significantly boost brand trust, help you enter new markets, and meet customer expectations.
What Is GRS Certification?
GRS (Global Recycled Standard) is an international, voluntary certification that verifies:
- The recycled content of materials
- Responsible production throughout the supply chain
- Chemical restrictions to ensure safety
- Environmental and social compliance in facilities
It was originally developed by Control Union Certifications and is now owned by Textile Exchange, a leading organization promoting sustainable materials.
GRS Covers These Key Areas
Recycled Material Content
- Requires materials to meet defined recycled percentages
- Uses ISO 14021 definitions (post-consumer & pre-consumer)
Chain of Custody (CoC)
- Uses the CCS (Content Claim Standard) model
- Ensures every step—from raw material to finished product—is traceable
Environmental Management
- Wastewater treatment
- Emissions control
- Energy and water use monitoring
Social Responsibility
- No forced labor or child labor
- Worker health and safety
- Legal working hours and fair pay
Restricted Chemicals
- Prohibits certain toxic substances during production
- Requires safe chemical management systems
GRS is typically used in textiles, plastics, packaging, rubber, metals, and consumer goods.
Who Needs GRS Certification?
GRS applies to any company involved in recycled material processing or product manufacturing, including:
- Recycled plastic pellet factories
- Textile mills & garment manufacturers
- Packaging producers
- Resin compounders
- Waste collectors and sorting centers
- Brands selling recycled-content products
- Traders handling recycled materials
If your product contains recycled content and you want to claim it publicly, GRS is one of the most trusted certifications.
GRS Certification Requirements
To get certified, your organization must meet standards in these categories:
1. Recycled Content Requirements
- Material must meet minimum recycled percentages (usually ≥ 20%).
- Post-consumer recycled material is highly valued.
2. Traceability
All supply chain partners must be certified.
(If one link is missing, the entire chain breaks.)
3. Environmental Standards
- Waste management plans
- Energy use tracking
- Emission controls
- Chemical safety practices
4. Social Responsibility
- Compliance with local laws and ILO labor standards
- Worker training and safety programs
- No discrimination or harassment
5. Chemical Restrictions
- Prohibited substances list (similar to ZDHC & OEKO-TEX requirements)
- Safe chemical handling documentation
How to Apply for GRS Certification (Step-by-Step)
Here is the standard GRS certification process, simplified into 6 steps:
Step 1: Determine If GRS Applies to Your Products
- Check if your material or product contains recycled content that needs verification.
Step 2: Choose an Approved Certification Body
Popular GRS auditing companies include:
- Control Union
- SGS
- Intertek
- TÜV Rheinland
- Bureau Veritas
Contact multiple agencies to compare pricing and audit time.
Step 3: Prepare Documentation
You will need:
- Company registration & legal documents
- Material purchase records
- Recycled content declarations
- Production flow charts
- Worker health & safety policies
- Chemical inventory lists
- Environmental permits
- Wastewater or emissions records
Good documentation = faster approval.
Step 4: Implement GRS Requirements Internally
Before the audit, ensure you meet:
- Traceability systems
- Labeling rules
- Social compliance requirements
- Environmental monitoring
- Material segregation procedures
Many companies take 2–6 months to prepare.
Step 5: On-Site Audit
Auditors will visit your facility to check:
- Production line
- Worker conditions
- Warehouse & storage
- Chemical areas
- Waste disposal
- Traceability documentation
If any issues appear, you’ll receive a Corrective Action Report (CAR).
Step 6: Certification Issued
Once you pass, you receive:
- GRS Certificate
- Scope Certificate (SC)
- Transaction Certificates (TC) for each shipment
Certificates are valid for one year and must be renewed.
How Much Does GRS Certification Cost?
Costs vary depending on:
- Facility size
- Country
- Production complexity
- Number of sites
- Certification body
Typical Range:
$3,000 – $8,000 per facility per year, large factories may pay more.
Tips for Passing the GRS Audit Smoothly
- Keep materials clearly separated (recycled vs. non-recycled).
- Train staff on labeling and documentation.
- Maintain an up-to-date list of all chemicals.
- Ensure suppliers are already GRS certified.
- Prepare mock audits before the official inspection.
GRS certification has become an international benchmark for sustainable materials, especially in textiles, plastics, and packaging. As consumers demand better transparency and companies shift toward ESG, GRS helps you build trust, enter global supply chains, and prove your environmental commitment. Whether you’re a recycler, manufacturer, brand, or trader, understanding and applying for GRS certification can significantly enhance your competitiveness in the global market.
FAQ
1. How long does it take to get GRS certified?
Typically 3–6 months, depending on how prepared your company is.
2. Can traders obtain GRS certification?
Yes. Traders can get certified if they maintain proper transaction documentation.
3. Does every supplier in the chain need to be certified?
Yes. GRS requires full chain-of-custody certification.
4. What is the minimum recycled content?
Usually 20%, but some brands require 50%, 80%, or 100%.
5. Is GRS mandatory?
No. But many brands require it to verify sustainability claims.
6. How long is a GRS certificate valid?
One year. Annual audits are required for renewal.
7. Can I use the GRS logo on products?
Only if your product meets all GRS rules and your certifier approves labeling.