A number of brands and suppliers from across the textile industry in the United Kingdom have pledged to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), says Textile Exchange (TE), a non-profit organization. The TE announced the release of the new RWS voluntary standard this summer.
The 15 brands that have made commitments to the Responsible Wool Standard include: H&M, Marks & Spencer, William-Sonoma, Inc., Patagonia, Eddie Bauer, REI, Eileen Fisher, Tchibo, Varner, Vaude, Coyuchi, Mountain Equipment Co-op, Deckers, Kathmandu and Knowledge Cotton Apparel. Many wool suppliers have expressed their individual commitment to the Responsible Wool Standard. They are : Rambler’s Way, Imperial Stock Ranch, New Merino Australia, Oviz 21, Chargeurs, ABMT Textiles, Lanas Trinidad and Lemprière. Several other wool suppliers have participated in global training events with a focus on setting up an RWS supply chain.
Besides, 10 additional companies have expressed support for the standard and are working toward implementation, Textile Exchange reports. These include LL Bean, Arc’teryx, Indigenous Designs, Nau, Point6 and Prana.
The RWS is an independent, voluntary standard. On farms, the certification aims to ensure that sheep are treated with respect to their five freedoms and the best practices in the management and protection of the land are adhered to. Through the processing stages, certification ensures that wool from certified farms is properly identified and tracked.
