Blog Details
Published: Dec 23, 2025
RCS Certification – Ensuring Responsible Use of Recycled Materials in the Textile Industry
With sustainability becoming a global priority, industries—especially textiles, apparel, and manufacturing—are under increasing pressure to adopt responsible practices. Today’s consumers demand transparency, traceability, and proof that products are environmentally responsible.
This is where RCS Certification (Recycled Claim Standard) plays a crucial role.
RCS Certification is an internationally recognized standard that verifies the presence and amount of recycled material in a final product. It helps organizations demonstrate credible sustainability claims while meeting global market and regulatory expectations.
What is RCS Certification?
The Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) is a voluntary, international standard used to track recycled raw materials through the supply chain. It applies to products containing at least 5% recycled material, ensuring accurate and verifiable recycled content claims.
- Verification of recycled input materials
- Chain of Custody tracking
- Transparent labeling and communication
Unlike broader sustainability certifications, RCS does not address social or environmental management systems—it strictly validates recycled material content and traceability.
Objectives of RCS Certification
- Ensuring credibility of recycled material claims
- Providing a standardized definition of “recycled”
- Supporting consistent labeling across global markets
- Enhancing supply chain transparency
- Encouraging use of recycled materials
Scope of RCS Certification
RCS Certification applies across multiple industries and product categories, covering the entire supply chain—from recycled material suppliers to brand owners.
- Textiles & apparel
- Yarn, fabric & garments
- Footwear & accessories
- Home textiles & furnishings
- Plastic products & packaging
Key Requirements of RCS Certification
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Recycled Material Verification | Inputs must be from verified pre- or post-consumer waste |
| Chain of Custody | Documented traceability at every production stage |
| Content Calculation | Accurate calculation of recycled material percentage |
| Material Balance | Input and output quantities must match |
| Labeling & Claims | Only certified products may carry RCS labels |
RCS vs GRS – Understanding the Difference
| Aspect | RCS | GRS |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum recycled content | 5% | 20% |
| Environmental & social criteria | Not included | Included |
| Chemical restrictions | Not required | Required |
| Primary focus | Recycled content verification | Full sustainability compliance |
RCS is ideal for organizations beginning their sustainability journey, while GRS suits advanced sustainability programs.
Benefits of RCS Certification
- Builds brand credibility through third-party verification
- Improves access to global buyers and retailers
- Enhances transparency and traceability
- Creates competitive market advantage
- Supports regulatory and buyer compliance
RCS Certification Process
- Application submission
- Gap analysis
- Documentation review
- On-site audit
- Corrective actions (if required)
- Certification issuance (valid for one year)
Importance of RCS Certification in Today’s Market
As ESG reporting and sustainability expectations continue to rise, RCS Certification helps organizations remain compliant, credible, and competitive. It supports circular economy goals by reducing dependence on virgin raw materials and promoting recycling.
For brands targeting environmentally conscious consumers and international buyers, RCS Certification is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity.
Why Choose Ascent Inspecta Maldives for RCS Certification?
Ascent Inspecta Maldives is a trusted certification and compliance partner offering expert guidance for RCS Certification with confidence and ease.
Our experienced auditors and consultants provide end-to-end support—from initial assessment to final certification—ensuring transparent, efficient, and hassle-free compliance. We focus on practical solutions that strengthen traceability systems without disrupting operations.
With deep expertise in textile and manufacturing supply chains, we support businesses of all sizes, ensuring accurate recycled content claims and global market acceptance.
- Qualified auditors & sustainability experts
- Tailored certification solutions
- Competitive timelines
- Client-centric approach
- International credibility & recognition
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