What is GRS?
GRS (Global Recycle Standard) is an international certification standard developed by the Textile Exchange. It aims to promote the use of recycled materials while ensuring traceability, environmental friendliness, and responsible production processes. The standard covers the entire supply chain, from the source of recycled materials to the final product, and enforces strict guidelines for environmental and social responsibility.
In simple terms:
GRS advocates the use of recycled materials.
Does using GRS-certified materials mean you can label your product with the GRS certification mark?
Not exactly. Just like FSC certification, simply using GRS-certified materials doesn’t automatically grant you the right to use the GRS certification mark. The entire production process must comply with GRS standards, and the manufacturer must pay to apply for GRS certification. Simply put, it’s like paying a “protection fee.”
Unless the order volume is large enough to justify asking a printing factory to obtain certification, most printing factories won’t pursue GRS certification on their own.
Does lacking GRS certification mean it’s not environmentally friendly?
Not necessarily. There are many types of environmental certifications, each with its own focus. For example:
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification emphasizes materials sourced from responsibly managed forests, aiming for sustainable forestry. While this is a significant environmental certification, it doesn’t cover plastic materials.
It’s also unfair to label plastic as inherently non-environmentally friendly. Plastic’s durability was originally intended to reduce the need for forest harvesting. GRS doesn’t limit itself to paper-based products, acknowledging the role recycled plastics can play in sustainability.
Even if a printing factory doesn’t have GRS certification, it can still use GRS-certified materials for production. Once the demand for eco-friendly products grows and the volume justifies it, the factory can then apply for GRS certification for the entire production line.
Are there GRS-certified laser anti-counterfeit labels?
Unfortunately, no.
The materials used for laser anti-counterfeit labels are quite specialized and not produced in large enough quantities compared to standard label materials. As a result, no GRS-certified laser labels have been developed yet. However, using 100% recycled PET stickers with GRS certification and applying printed or hot-stamped laser effects can be an excellent alternative!
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