GUIDE
How to make honest sustainability claims about your merch.
Specific, evidenced claims build trust. Vague ones risk greenwashing.
Quick answer
Only claim what the garment’s certification supports, and say it specifically, for example “made with GOTS-certified organic cotton” rather than “eco-friendly”. Avoid broad words like “green” or “sustainable” without explanation, do not extend a garment certification to the print or the whole product, and keep the certificates on file. In Australia, the ACCC has made environmental and sustainability claims a priority, and claims must not be misleading under the Australian Consumer Law.
Match the claim to the certification
- GOTS or OCS: supports claims about organic cotton content
- GRS or RCS: supports claims about recycled content
- Fair Wear: supports claims about the brand’s commitment to working conditions, not a single product label
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100: supports claims that the finished textile was tested for harmful substances
Be specific
- Instead of “eco-friendly tee”, say “tee made with GOTS-certified organic cotton”
- Instead of “sustainable tote”, say “tote made from certified organic cotton”
- Instead of “recycled hoodie”, say “hoodie with 50% GRS-certified recycled content” (using the real percentage)
Common mistakes
- Calling a whole range organic when only some styles are
- Assuming the garment certification covers the print, label or packaging
- Using a certification logo without permission from the certifier or brand
- Using “carbon neutral” or “climate positive” without current evidence
Keep the evidence
Keep the certificates and style details for every item you make claims about, so you can answer customer and supplier questions. We include the certification of each style in your quote and provide certificates on request. See certifications explained.
The rules where you sell
In Australia, the ACCC has made environmental and sustainability claims a priority, and claims must not be misleading under the Australian Consumer Law.
Questions
What is greenwashing?
Making environmental claims that are vague, exaggerated or not backed by evidence, so a product seems more sustainable than it is.
Can I use the GOTS logo on my merch?
Only with permission and under the certifier’s labelling rules. Many brands describe the certified material in words instead. Ask us before you plan to use any certification logo.
Does an organic tee make my printed merch organic?
Not automatically. The certification covers the garment. Describe what is certified, for example “printed on a certified organic cotton tee”.
Related guides
OCC APPAREL – AUSTRALIA
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