Sustainability
Textile Exchange publicly launches eTrackit – An electronic traceability offering for its certified materials
eTrackit is part of the organization’s two-tier traceability offering for materials certified to its standards, working alongside dTrackit (Digital Trackit). It is the first system of its kind, enhancing the integrity of supply chain traceability by tracking the volume of materials certified to Textile Exchange standards at the product level.
eTrackit works by electronically tracking certified materials for each key product transformation, as well as every time products are transacted between a seller and a buyer. Business rules are built into the system, and inventories are transacted in real-time to reduce operational processing and data turnaround time. The platform enables the peer-to-peer validation of transactions and leverages third-party certification bodies in the verification process.
The Trackit systems aim to increase efficiency throughout the supply chain while also providing brands with the verified data they need to make confident product claims. This is part of Textile Exchange’s work to accelerate the adoption of preferred materials with beneficial outcomes by further strengthening integrity in its standards.
eTrackit’s initial release application is powered by the traceability platform TextileGenesis™. However, Textile Exchange will continue to develop pathways under the Trackit umbrella as the system evolves, collaborating with further solution providers and stakeholders who are working with other traceability solutions once its data evolves.
Work is also underway to expand Trackit to include a wider selection of standards. Currently, the Responsible Animal Fiber Standards (RAF) and the Organic Content Standard (OCS) are in the pilot phase, with commercial application planned for 2024.
“At Textile Exchange, we are committed to providing the industry with the tools it needs to achieve its climate and nature goals. We’re excited to offer brands a digital alternative for tracking certified materials across the value chain; one that enhances efficiency and integrity. eTrackit builds on our foundation of accountability and serves as a roadmap to impact, connecting responsible sourcing to tangible positive change.” – Evonne Tan, Senior Director of Data and Technology at Textile Exchange
Eligible, certified brands can now register for eTrackit and begin the process of supply chain mapping. H&M Group, Inditex, and Varner are among the brands supporting this new solution.
Once registered, certified organizations can apply for eTransactions, which the system will authenticate against the permissible scope, as well as their available inventory, and their adherence to content and standard requirements. Validated eTransactions are then passed on to certification bodies for verification and approval. eTransactions will be generated from January 2024.