Recycled Claim Standard Blended
Textile Exchange
Verifies products with at least 50% recycled materials.
Key Strengths
- Third-party verified recycled content claims for blended products
- Globally recognized standard backed by Textile Exchange
- Supports supply chain transparency from raw material to finished product
- Enables brands to communicate recycled content credibly to consumers
- Flexible threshold (50%+) accommodates real-world blended material compositions
- Aligns with circular economy and responsible sourcing goals
Ideal For
Best suited for textile manufacturers, brands, and retailers that incorporate a blend of recycled and virgin materials in their products and want to substantiate recycled content claims. Ideal for companies in apparel, home textiles, or accessories seeking credible third-party verification to meet retailer requirements or consumer expectations around sustainability.
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Overview
The Recycled Claim Standard Blended (RCS Blended) certifies products made with at least 50% recycled materials. This certification is similar to RCS 100 but applies to products that contain a blend of recycled and non-recycled materials. The certification provides transparency in the use of recycled content in products, promoting responsible material sourcing and helping consumers choose more sustainable products. RCS Blended supports the global shift towards a circular economy by encouraging manufacturers to incorporate more recycled content in their products.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate a documented chain of custody for recycled input materials, showing that at least 50% of the product's content is recycled. This includes transaction certificates, supplier declarations, material flow records, and internal processing documentation. Third-party certification bodies conduct audits of facilities and records to verify claims.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Certification is conducted by independent, Textile Exchange-licensed certification bodies. Auditors review facility documentation, material flow records, and transaction certificates to verify that at least 50% of product content is recycled. On-site or remote audits assess internal processes, supplier records, and labeling practices. There is no written exam; certification is based on documentary evidence and audit findings.
Renewal & Compliance
Certification must be renewed annually. Certificate holders are subject to ongoing surveillance audits by their accredited certification body to maintain valid certification. Updated transaction certificates are required for each shipment or sales claim made under the standard.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
If your product contains 100% recycled content, the RCS 100 certification is more appropriate and carries a stronger market signal. Organizations seeking broader sustainability claims beyond recycled content (e.g., organic, fair trade, or chemical safety) should consider complementary or alternative standards.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2013
How to Use This Label
Certification Details
Assessment
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