Global Standard Glossary

Fibres that have not undergone any post-harvest processing.

Activities through which materials are collected and treated in order to generate recovered resources that can be used as inputs for new products or production processes. Energy recovery is not considered recycling.
Recycling activities may include the collection, transport, sorting, cleaning, and reprocessing of materials. Reuse of products is not considered recycling.

An audit conducted partially or entirely off-site, using electronic means to obtain audit evidence remotely and to assess compliance with the relevant Standard criteria. This type of audit may involve the use of technology such as video conferencing, secure file sharing and/or remote access to relevant documentation. Remote audits may include a combination of off-site and on-site activities, with the auditor conducting interviews, reviewing documents and assessing compliance from a remote location.

Bringing a product back to a state in which it can perform its originally intended function. Restoration may involve repairing the product or renewing or replacing components that have become worn, damaged, or degraded through use.

Modifying a product so they can be used for a purpose different from the one originally intended, without significant changes to their physical, chemical, or mechanical characteristics.

A comprehensive approach to business operations that aligns with the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains in the Garment and Footwear Sector. It encompasses a range of practices and policies that businesses should adopt to ensure they contribute positively to sustainable development, respect human rights, protect the environment and uphold ethical standards throughout their operations and supply chains.

A business entity or an online marketplace selling directly and exclusively to an end consumer (DTC operator).

Declaration document required to be submitted to Global Standard gGmbH by uncertified retailers who wish to use the GOTS Signs for off-product usage.

Using a product again for the same purpose for which it was originally designed after its initial use. Reuse may occur by the original user or by subsequent users over time and may require only limited actions, such as cleaning, to enable continued use.