Sustainability & Compliance Glossary
In the promotional products industry, sustainability and compliance are more than just buzzwords—they are key to building trust, ensuring quality, and meeting the evolving expectations of customers and end-buyers.
To help you navigate this landscape and make informed decisions, we've compiled a glossary of essential sustainability terms, explaining their significance and why they matter to the promo industry.
bluesign®️
bluesign®️ is an independent certification system that ensures the environmental and social impacts of textile manufacturing are transparent and sustainable.
WHY IT MATTERS: bluesign®️ verifies that every product meets rigorous safety, performance, and sustainability standards. By focusing on clean chemicals, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing from the start, bluesign®️ helps suppliers deliver high-quality, eco-conscious products that you and your end-buyers can trust.
BSCI – Business Social Compliance Initiative
BSCI ensures that factories uphold ethical labor practices and workers' rights.
WHY IT MATTERS: Partnering with BSCI-compliant suppliers ensures that your promotional products are made in fair and safe conditions. It means promoting a brand that champions worker rights and ethical manufacturing practices.
COC – Code of Conduct
A supplier's Code of Conduct outlines their commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
WHY IT MATTERS: A clear Code of Conduct builds trust in the supply chain. It guarantees that products are sourced and manufactured responsibly, allowing you to offer items that align with your customers' values on sustainability.
CSR – Corporate Social Responsibility
CSR focuses on a company’s efforts to make a positive impact on society and the environment.
WHY IT MATTERS: CSR initiatives show your customers that you care about more than profits—you’re invested in people and the planet. This enhances your brand’s reputation and attracts eco-conscious clients who value sustainability.
EOL – End of Life
End-of-life planning ensures products are recyclable or disposed of responsibly after use.
WHY IT MATTERS: Prioritizing EOL design minimizes waste and promotes a circular economy. This helps distributors offer products that are not only useful but also sustainable, contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
ERP – Extended Producer Responsibility
ERP holds producers accountable for managing their products after they’ve reached the end of their life cycle.
WHY IT MATTERS: ERP compliance reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact. By offering products with ERP compliance, distributors can encourage their clients to participate in sustainable waste management and recycling efforts.
ESG – Environmental, Social, and Governance
ESG measures a company’s impact on the environment, its workforce, and its governance practices.
WHY IT MATTERS: Integrating ESG practices showcases your commitment to responsible business operations. It resonates with buyers who value sustainability, making your brand more attractive to eco-conscious clients.
FSC – Forest Stewardship Council
FSC certification ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests.
WHY IT MATTERS: FSC-certified products help preserve ecosystems and protect biodiversity. Offering these products assures end-users that their purchases support sustainable forestry practices and environmental conservation.
GHG – Greenhouse Gas
GHG emissions refer to gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
WHY IT MATTERS: Measuring and reducing GHG emissions help combat climate change. Distributors can market products with a lower carbon footprint, appealing to customers who want to minimize their environmental impact.
GRS – Global Recycled Standard
GRS verifies that products contain recycled materials and meet strict environmental standards.
WHY IT MATTERS: GRS guarantees that recycled content is responsibly sourced and traceable. For distributors, offering GRS-certified products demonstrates a commitment to waste reduction and resource efficiency, giving end-users confidence in their sustainable purchases.
OEKO-TEX (Standard 100)
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 ensures textiles are free from harmful chemicals and safe for human use.
WHY IT MATTERS: OEKO-TEX-certified products are non-toxic, safe, and reliable. By choosing OEKO-TEX items, distributors can provide end-users with products that are not only eco-friendly but also safe for long-term use.
PFAS – Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are synthetic substances that do not break down in the environment.
WHY IT MATTERS: Reducing PFAS in products helps eliminate toxic chemicals that pollute water, soil, and wildlife. Offering products made without the intentional use of PFAS means distributors can provide safer, more environmentally friendly options to their customers.
REACH – Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals
REACH regulates chemicals to protect human health and the environment.
WHY IT MATTERS: REACH compliance ensures products meet stringent safety standards, especially in the EU. Distributors offering REACH-compliant products can assure clients that their purchases meet high environmental and health safety standards.
TOSCA – Toxic Substances Control Act
TOSCA regulates chemicals in products to prevent environmental and health hazards.
WHY IT MATTERS: TOSCA compliance guarantees that products are free from harmful chemicals. For distributors, this reduces liability and enhances trust by offering products that align with rigorous safety and environmental regulations.
WRAP – Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production
WRAP certification guarantees that production facilities adhere to ethical, responsible manufacturing practices.
WHY IT MATTERS: WRAP certification ensures fair working conditions and environmental responsibility in the supply chain. Distributors can proudly offer these products, knowing they’re supporting ethical manufacturing practices that benefit both people and the planet.
Why These Terms Matter
Understanding these certifications and standards is essential for staying competitive and responsible in the promo industry. They not only ensure compliance but also position your brand as a leader in sustainability. Offering products that meet these standards shows your commitment to eco-conscious choices, helping you attract customers who prioritize both quality and sustainability. Together, we can drive a positive change in the industry, supporting a greener and more sustainable future.
