GOTS-certified facilities rise 5.2% in 2024 as Global Standard eyes broader sustainability impact

Global Standard, the nonprofit behind the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), has reported a 5.2 per cent rise in certified facilities in 2024, bringing the total to 15,441 across 87 countries. In its 2024 Annual Report, the group underscored its major achievements in setting new sustainability benchmarks, launching tech-driven fraud prevention, and expanding consumer outreach.

One of the biggest milestones was the full implementation of GOTS Version 7.0 in March 2024, accompanied by auditor training and a Due Diligence Handbook. The group also kicked off the revision process for Version 8.0, which will introduce circular economy principles and stronger climate and worker protections.

In a major shift, Global Standard redefined its mission to become a Voluntary Sustainability Standard (VSS) setter, planning new standards beyond organic textiles. The first drafts will be open for public comment in 2025.

A standout innovation came from the Satellite Cotton Monitoring Project in India, developed with the European Space Agency and AI firm Marple. It achieved 97 per cent accuracy in identifying cotton fields and 80 per cent in organic status detection, boosting trust in organic fibre sourcing. Global Standard also expanded its #BehindTheSeams campaign, reaching over 70 million people in 2024 and amplifying awareness of organic textiles globally.