GRS Certification Process for Recycled Plastic Suppliers
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) provides verification for recycled content claims and responsible social and environmental practices throughout the supply chain.
Certification Requirements
Material Sourcing
- Minimum 20% recycled content in final product
- Verified chain of custody from source to product
- Third-party audit of material suppliers
Social Responsibility
- No child labor or forced labor
- Safe working conditions compliance
- Living wage verification
Environmental Practices
- Chemical management compliance
- Waste water treatment verification
- Emission monitoring documentation
Certification Process
- Application to accredited certification body
- Document review and gap analysis
- Implementation of required systems
- Initial audit and certification
- Annual surveillance audits
Certification Bodies
Accredited certification bodies include Control Union, Intertek, and SGS. Certification validity is typically three years with annual audits.
Market Benefits
GRS certification enables market access to major brands with sustainable sourcing requirements. Premium pricing for certified materials typically ranges from 5-15% above non-certified alternatives.