#Sustainability

2021-02-04

Green Button: Hohenstein is an authorised certification body

The Green Button is the German government’s certification label for consumers to identify sustainable textiles. © BMZ

Textile testing provider Hohenstein has been authorized by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) to verify compliance for the Green Button, a German government certification for sustainable textiles. Now, in addition to certification for MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®, a qualifier for the Green Button, Hohenstein certifies for the 46 Green Button criteria.

The German government seal for sustainable textiles offers consumers guidance while shopping.

Hohenstein draws on decades of specialized textile testing, certification and auditing. A founding member and testing body of the OEKO-TEX® Association, the company is firmly committed to consumer protection and product responsibility. Green Button applicants can choose Hohenstein as a single partner for the entire process, with or without MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® as a pre-requisite.

MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® is one of the labels qualified to demonstrate compliance with the Green Button social and environmental criteria. The traceable product label proves that textile and leather products have been tested for harmful substances and manufactured in an environmentally friendly and socially responsible manner.

During the introductory phase, the BMZ will bear the initial assessment costs. After March 1, 2021, companies will select from the list of approved certification bodies, including Hohenstein and contact them directly.

The Green Button originates in Germany but aims to be a global seal. In line with the globalised textile value chain, all companies that manufacture and/or distribute textile goods can apply for the Green Button.

The testing service provider Hohenstein has specialised in the testing and certification of textile products for decades. As a founding member and testing body of the OEKO-TEX® Association, the company has always been committed to consumer protection and product responsibility. © Hohenstein

A new standard to combat plastic waste in forests

With DIN SPEC 35808 “Tree Shelter for Forestry Applications,” the testing and research service provider Hohenstein, in collaboration with Rottenburg University of Forestry, as well as forestry authorities and industry partners, has established a clear framework for bio-based and fully biodegradable tree shelters. The pre-standard defines requirements and practical testing methods designed to reduce plastic waste in forests and strengthen the long-term protection of soil and the environment.

Hohenstein publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

The testing and research service provider Hohenstein has published its latest sustainability report, outlining key progress and strategic initiatives. The report focuses on ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, the company’s new mission statement and the systematic expansion of sustainable services for customers worldwide.

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Textile products made from synthetic fibres, finished fabrics or dyed materials release fibre fragments into the environment at every stage of their life cycle. With the new DIN SPEC 19296, Hohenstein has developed a standardised testing method to analyse how these fragments behave in soil under natural conditions. Until now, little was known about their environmental behaviour or potential ecological effects once released.

Updated supply chain taxonomy advances apparel alignment

The apparel alliance (Apparel Impact Institute, Cascale, Textile Exchange, and ZDHC Foundation) today announced the launch of Version 2 of the Supply Chain Taxonomy, an updated harmonized framework designed to improve consistency, transparency, and collaboration across the textile, clothing, leather, and footwear (TCLF) sectors of the broader apparel industry.

Indovinya advances sustainable solutions with agreement for the supply of renewable Oxygen from Air Liquide

Indovinya, the specialty chemicals and surfactants division of Indorama Ventures, has entered into an agreement with Air Liquide — a world leader in gases, technologies, and services for industry and healthcare — for the supply of renewable oxygen. The agreement represents a strategic advancement in Indovinya’s commitment to sustainability, as it increases the share of renewable raw materials in the production of ethylene oxide, one of its key products.

EU ban on destroying unsold clothing and footwear now in force

The European Union's ban on the destruction of unsold clothing, clothing accessories and footwear has entered into force. Since July 19, 2026, large companies across the EU have been prohibited from destroying unsold textile products, while medium-sized companies will be required to comply with the same rules from 2030.

Eastman Naia™ brings its inside-out denim vision to Kingpins New York

Following its debut at Kingpins Amsterdam, Eastman Naia™ brings the next chapter of its denim story to Kingpins New York, taking place July 22–23. At Booth Green 7, Naia™ presents its denim proposition built around three complementary design directions: Performance Denim, Fashion Denim and Authentic Denim.