Givachoice, a manufacturer of the world’s most renowned brands, remains unwavering in its commitment to shaping a more eco-conscious future.

By prioritising the reduction of environmental impact and championing ethical values and sound management practices in the fashion industry, the company's sustainability policy strives to safeguard both the environment and the well-being of future generations.

For Givachoice, sustainability is life!

Unlocking Opportunities for Small-Scale Excellence in Organic Textiles
In the world of organic textiles, obtaining GOTS certification is a prestigious achievement, and one that can open the door to new business opportunities. But for small operators, the complexity and cost of this certification can be a barrier.

Recognising that administrative complexities and financial burdens can impede these operators, GOTS introduced the ongoing Controlled Supply Chain Scheme (CSCS) Pilot Project in 2022. This pioneering endeavour simplifies and streamlines the certification process for groups of small-scale facilities. Under CSCS, a supply chain with a minimum of eight and a maximum of 30 small-scale facilities, each with 20 or fewer workers, can achieve GOTS certification as a single Certified Entity after a comprehensive risk assessment.

SANKEI MERIYASU, a 97-year-old Japanese artisan knitwear company with deep roots in tradition and community, recently achieved the first GOTS certification through the CSCS system. Project Coordinator Yuko Nishino praises the company’s commitment, saying, ‘SANKEI MERIYASU is a pivotal participant in the groundbreaking GOTS CSCS initiative, exemplifying pioneering dedication. This achievement resonates profoundly in Japan's textile industry, where cherished traditions, techniques, and community connections are of importance’.  

Ken Miki, Executive Director at SANKEI MERIYASU, shared his pride in SANKEI MERIYASU's trailblazing accomplishment, stating, ‘As the very first group to receive GOTS CSCS certification in the world, we will continue our efforts to make products that we are proud of, and communicate to the world about the products made by this local small group in Japan’.  

Shaping the Future
As the pilot project undergoes review and evaluation, GOTS will refine and validate the CSCS requirements, with the goal of implementing it fully for all markets. GOTS remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the organic textile market, ensuring sustainability, and creating opportunities that empower operators of all sizes to participate.

Transforming Cotton Production in Mexico with GOTS Certification
Cotton in Mexico

Cotton has played an integral role in Mexico's history for thousands of years. The country boasts a rich diversity of cotton species, including wild relatives of the most commonly grown variety, known as ‘Upland Cotton’ (Gossypium Hirsutum). However, the introduction of genetically modified (GMO) cotton in the 1990s, along with environmental and health concerns, raised questions about the sustainability of cotton production. In 2019, Mexico banned the cultivation of GM cotton, providing a fresh opportunity to explore new approaches to cotton farming.

In Chihuahua, where GMO seeds dominated cotton production, a collaborative effort unfolded. A small local organisation, Materia Consumo Sostenible, partnered with GOTS to demonstrate that alternative cotton production methods were not just viable but essential. The challenge was to empower local farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to cultivate organic cotton while ensuring the environmental and economic sustainability of the industry.

The project's goals were ambitious. It aimed to enable farmers to grow organic cotton, embracing eco-friendly practices while supporting the local community. The pilot project spanned approximately 2.5 hectares and anticipated yields of 11 to 14 bales of organically certified seed cotton. The initiative also sought to establish robust supply chains, enabling farmers to access fair prices and cultivate long-lasting commercial relationships.
Navigating the challenges posed by the dominance of conventional cotton production in the region was no small feat. One significant hurdle was finding a ginning facility willing to process organic cotton. Additionally, adapting transportation and cropping equipment to the project's scale required creative solutions.

The results of this endeavour are nothing short of inspiring. Jesus Aguerre Chavez, GOTS Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, summed it up: "This transcends mere cultivation; it represents a commitment to safeguard our environment, the health of our workers, and our cultural heritage. We are sowing the seeds of a more sustainable future".
The project demonstrates that organic cotton production can flourish, promoting both ecological and community well-being. As the government's restrictions on GM cotton cultivation create opportunities for transformation, the partnership between GOTS and local organisations represents a path to a more sustainable cotton industry in Mexico.

The knowledge gained in this project will be synthesised into an educational manual. This guide will empower others to embark on a similar path, contributing to the growth of organic cotton production and, ultimately, the creation of a more environmentally friendly and equitable cotton industry in Mexico.