What is RCS Certification?

This article explains the Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) certification—defining it, outlining requirements, comparing it to similar standards (e.g., GRS), detailing the certification process, identifying eligible industries/products, and highlighting benefits. It also guides on application and lists authorized certifiers, helping businesses decide if RCS aligns with their sustainability goals.

Definition of RCS Certification

The Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) is a global standard developed by Textile Exchange to verify the percentage of recycled materials in products. It establishes a traceable supply chain framework, ensuring accurate claims about recycled content. RCS applies to any product with recycled inputs (e.g., textiles, plastics, paper) across all supply chain stages—from raw material suppliers to finished goods manufacturers—enabling transparent sustainability claims.

Key Requirements for RCS Certification

RCS certification has core criteria:

• Recycled Content: Products require at least 5% recycled materials (RCS 100 mandates 100% recycled content).
• Traceability: Detailed records (invoices, production logs) track recycled materials from source to finished product.
• Chain of Custody: Each supply chain entity (supplier, processor, trader) must maintain documentation to ensure material integrity.
• Basic Compliance: Facilities follow environmental (e.g., waste management) and social (e.g., labor rights) standards (less rigorous than GRS).

RCS vs GRS Certification

A common question is how RCS differs from the Global Recycled Standard (GRS):

• RCS focuses solely on tracking recycled content (minimum 5% for RCS; 100% for RCS 100).
• GRS mandates 20% recycled content plus stricter social (e.g., fair labor) and environmental (e.g., chemical restrictions) criteria.
  RCS suits businesses seeking simple recycled content verification, while GRS is ideal for brands prioritizing comprehensive sustainability.

RCS Certification Process

The RCS certification process follows these steps:

1. Application: Select an authorized certifier (e.g., SGS) and submit product details, supply chain info, and recycled material sources.
2. Documentation Review: The certifier assesses records (e.g., recycled material certificates, production reports) for traceability.
3. On – Site Audit: Auditors verify processes, record – keeping, and material handling at facilities.
4. Certification: After approval, a certificate is issued, with annual surveillance audits to maintain compliance.

Industries & Products for RCS Certification

RCS certification applies to industries using recycled materials:

• Textiles: Recycled polyester/cotton apparel, upholstery.
• Packaging: Recycled plastic/paper bags, boxes.
• Plastics: Recycled resin pellets, containers.
• Electronics: Recycled metal components, casings.
• Paper: Recycled pulp – based products (e.g., notebooks, cartons).
  Any product with ≥5% recycled content (or 100% for RCS 100) qualifies, from raw materials to finished goods.

Benefits of RCS Certification

RCS certification offers strategic advantages:

• Market Appeal: Proves commitment to recycling, attracting eco – conscious consumers and businesses.
• Transparency: Builds stakeholder trust via verified material traceability across the supply chain.
• Regulatory Alignment: Meets global sustainability regulations (e.g., EU’s circular economy goals).
• Market Expansion: Satisfies retailer requirements for recycled – content products, opening new sales channels.

How to Apply for RCS Certification

To apply for RCS certification:

1. Select a Certifier: Choose an authorized body (e.g., SGS, Intertek) with RCS expertise.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather recycled material sources (supplier certificates), production records, and supply chain maps.
3. Submit Application: Provide product details, recycled content claims, and facility information.
4. Complete Audits: Pass document review and on – site audit; address non – conformities if identified.
5. Receive Certification: Use the RCS logo to communicate recycled content claims post – approval.

Authorized Certification Bodies for RCS Certification

Authorized RCS certification bodies include global leaders:

• SGS: Delivers RCS audits across industries, ensuring compliance with Textile Exchange standards.
• Intertek (ITS): Offers end – to – end RCS certification for supply chains.
• Bureau Veritas: Specializes in sustainable material verification, including RCS.
• CUC (CU): Focuses on textile and packaging supply chain sustainability.
• OneCert: Experts in organic and recycled material standards.
  These bodies follow the RCS framework to provide credible, consistent audits.