OEKO-TEX Shares Results of its Annual Report 2020/2021

For another consecutive year, OEKO-TEX, an organization bringing transparency to textile and leather production chains, reports positive results, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The association issued more than 31,000 certificates and labels in the past financial year, an increase of 31% compared to 2019/2020. According to the organization, MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX grew the most, doubling the number of labels. OEKO-TEX also moved forward with its new Water and Carbon Footprint Tool.

“Our mission remains unchanged,” says OEKO-TEX secretary-general Georg Dieners. “The annual report reflects the growing importance of this topic across the industry.”

Over 21,000 manufacturers, brands, and retailers formally work with OEKO-TEX in more than 100 countries. The number of labels and certificates issued rose from 24,205 to 31,696 between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021.

During year two of the COVID-19 pandemic, OEKO-TEX continues with certification and avoids supply chain interruptions. The association supported the industry and global fight against COVID-19 with waivers of over 370 STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX certification fees on mouth and nose masks. Due to travel restrictions, the organization implemented guidelines for virtual audits to ensure a smooth and consistent certification process.

Additionally, together with sustainability consulting group Quantis, the organization has developed the OEKO-TEX Carbon & Water Footprint Tool to help the fashion industry reduce its CO₂ emissions and water consumption. In 2021 the methodology was successfully certified by a neutral third party and implemented. The tool will be integrated into the STeP by OEKO-TEX certification in 2022.

Regarding trademark protection OEKO-TEX has worked, since the beginning of 2021, with the brand protection software SENTRYC to act against trademark infringement. So far, over 2,600 misuse cases have been detected and resolved.

View the full report here.