Materials and Certification

Because we design every detail ourselves at JOSH V, we have a great deal of influence over the materials we choose. Polyester, cotton, and viscose are the materials most commonly used in our collections, so this is where we can make the biggest impact. By 2030, our goal is to fully replace these materials with more sustainable alternatives.

Follow our progress in our roadmap to 2030.

At the same time, we know that it is not as simple as replacing materials alone. Finding, testing, and implementing the right solutions takes time. That is why we base our choices on recognised certifications and work with partners who help us take the right steps along the way.

Read more about the standards and partners we work with to make more sustainable choices.

Certification

Certification helps make our sustainability efforts transparent and verifiable. It provides you with clear and reliable insight into the impact of the choices we make.

In 2026, we will begin the process of obtaining Textile Exchange Content Claim Standard (CCS) certification. This will enable us to better trace certified materials throughout our supply chain.

It will also allow us to use recognised standards such as GRS, OCS, and RWS. These standards verify the origin of more sustainable materials and strengthen our transparency through independent, verified claims.

Better Cotton

Better Cotton is sourced through a chain of custody model called ‘mass balance’. This means that Better Cotton is not physically traceable to the end product, but Better Cotton farmers benefit from the demand for Better Cotton in volumes equivalent to the amount we source.

LENZING™ ECOVERO™

LENZING™ ECOVERO™ is a more sustainable alternative to viscose. Its production requires less water and generates lower CO₂ emissions. In addition, it is 100% biodegradable. When LENZING™ ECOVERO™ is not available, we use alternatives such as TENCEL™.

Livaeco by Birla Cellulose™

Livaeco by Birla Cellulose™ is made from natural cellulose fibres derived from wood pulp, a natural and renewable resource. The pulp comes from FSC®-certified, more sustainably managed forests. In these forests, more trees are planted than harvested, helping to preserve nature. Thanks to blockchain technology, the origin of the material can be fully traced, from the garment back to its source.

Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) & Global Recycling Standard (GRS)

The RCS and GRS verify that a new product contains a minimum percentage of recycled material (RCS 5%, GRS 20%). Giving discarded materials a new life helps reduce the use of raw materials, water, chemicals, and energy.

The certification process is complex and costly for our suppliers. That is why we currently accept certification at textile level. This means that the textile itself is certified, but the final item is not. We are working on taking further steps in this area.

Organic Content Standard (OCS)

OCS verifies whether a product contains organically grown materials. It does not cover the social or environmental aspects of production. Organic cotton is better for local biodiversity, soil health, and farmers.

The certification process is complex and costly for our suppliers. That is why we currently accept certification at textile level. This means that the textile itself is certified, but the final item is not. We are working on taking further steps in this area.

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

GOTS focuses on sustainability and working conditions throughout the entire textile supply chain. It requires at least 70% organic natural fibres, does not allow blending, and permits up to 10% synthetic or recycled fibres.

The certification process is complex and costly for our suppliers. That is why we currently accept certification at textile level. This means that the textile itself is certified, but the final item is not. We are working on taking further steps in this area.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

The FSC forest certification indicates that a paper product (or wood) comes from a more sustainably managed forest. It covers socially, environmentally, and economically responsible forest management.

Leather Working Group (LWG)

LWG is committed to reducing the environmental impact of the leather industry. It focuses on the quality and safety of leather products. To obtain LWG certification, manufacturers must meet requirements related to water and energy use, chemical management, and safe working conditions.

The certification process is complex and costly for our suppliers. That is why we currently accept certification at material level. This means that the material itself is certified, but the final item is not. We are working towards the next step.

Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)

The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) ensures that wool comes from farms that prioritise animal welfare and responsible land management. Through certified supply chains, we make the origin of wool transparent, from farm to final product. In this way, we contribute to more responsible wool production.