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5 Pillars of Sustainability - Ecology
“Natural down to the fiber”
Ecology is the foundation of our sustainable fashion. At LIVING CRAFTS, responsibility does not begin with the finished garment, but with the fiber itself. For over 40 years, we have been working to develop textiles that are in harmony with nature. From the very beginning, LIVING CRAFTS has been part of the movement for environmentally friendly and fair textiles. As a founding member of the IVN (International Association of the Natural Textile Industry), we actively contributed to the initiative that helped establish the GOTS standard. Since 2009, our production has been continuously certified according to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
Sustainable raw materials from certified organic farming
Our materials primarily come from certified organic sources, meaning our clothing is largely made from organic cotton and other ecologically produced fibers. Certified organic farming avoids synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and genetically modified seeds. When it comes to animal fibers, we ensure species-appropriate animal welfare and responsible sourcing.
This means in concrete terms:
Protection of soils and natural soil fertility
Preservation of clean water resources
Promotion of biodiversity
Protection of farmers’ health
Reduced environmental impact compared to conventional cotton production
Organic cotton, for example, conserves resources and reduces harmful substances – a crucial step toward sustainable textiles.
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Resource-saving processing and environmentally friendly production
Sustainability does not end in the field for us. We also apply ecological standards in the processing of our textiles.
During production, we focus on:
Avoiding toxic chemicals
Controlled dyeing and finishing processes
Reduced water and energy consumption
Responsible wastewater management
Our production processes are designed to minimize environmental impact and respect natural cycles. The result is fashion that not only looks good but is also produced responsibly.
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What does GOTS-certified mean?
For us, GOTS is not just a label, but a binding framework for responsible, resource-efficient fashion. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) defines globally recognized criteria for ecological textiles – from the harvesting of organic fibers to the finished garment.
It ensures that sustainable fashion is not only made from organic cotton but is processed in an environmentally responsible way throughout the entire supply chain.
Core ecological criteria of GOTS
Certified organic fibers: Products may carry the GOTS logo if at least 70% of the fibers are from certified organic sources – in this case labeled “made with 70% organic materials.” Products with at least 95% organic fibers receive full GOTS certification and can carry the logo without additional wording.
Ban on harmful chemicals: No use of PFAS, formaldehyde, chlorine-based bleaching agents, or heavy metals.
Strict environmental requirements: Clear guidelines for chemical management, wastewater treatment, and emission control.
Sustainable packaging: No PVC; paper and cardboard must come from recycled materials or certified sources.
Traceability: Every stage of production is regularly audited by independent certification bodies.
This ensures reduced environmental impact, conservation of resources, and respect for natural cycles.
Ongoing development of the standard
GOTS is regularly updated to comprehensively address environmental and social requirements:
Version 7.0 (2024): Stricter criteria for organic fibers, exclusion of additional harmful substances, measures to reduce microplastics
Version 8.0 (March 2026): Stricter chemical management, greater supply chain transparency, additional requirements for climate and emissions management
In addition to ecological standards, GOTS also includes social criteria and human rights requirements – which we explore in detail in our “Social” pillar.
Our GOTS scope certificate
The GOTS Standard: https://global-standard.org/the-standard
Certification: https://global-standard.org/certification-and-labelling
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Complementary standards: RWS & GRS
In addition to GOTS, we use other recognized standards for selected materials, such as RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) and GRS (Global Recycled Standard).
The RWS ensures that wool is sourced responsibly and sustainably, focusing on animal welfare and the sustainability of the entire supply chain – protecting soils, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
The GRS guarantees that recycled materials are traceable and processed according to clearly defined environmental requirements. This promotes resource recycling and reduces the need for new raw materials.
Both standards complement our ecological commitment and support our goal of strengthening natural cycles and minimizing environmental impact.
Social criteria and transparency requirements of these standards are explored further in the respective sustainability pillars.
Slow Fashion instead of Fast Fashion
For us, ecology also means conscious consumption and long-lasting quality.
Instead of constantly changing trend cycles, we focus on slow fashion:
Two collections per year
Timeless designs
High-quality, durable materials
Clothing designed to be worn for many years
Durable clothing conserves resources, reduces textile waste, and protects the climate and environment. Sustainable fashion begins with choosing quality over short-lived trends.
Sustainable fashion in harmony with nature
For us, ecology is not a trend, but a responsibility. From organic fibers and environmentally friendly production to durable craftsmanship, we take a holistic approach to sustainability.
This is how sustainable fashion is created – good for your skin and your conscience.
Natural. Resource-efficient. Future-oriented.
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