• April 15, 2021

Responsible treatment of people and the planet is a fundamental part of Zimmerli of Switzerland’s mindset. This dedication is evident at their manufactory in Switzerland. To emphasize this tradition of sustainability, Zimmerli has chosen STeP by OEKO-TEX® certification for its production facility.

STeP by OEKO-TEX® is an independent certification for manufacturers in the textile and leather industry and is suitable for production facilities at all processing stages. Environmental measures can thus be communicated in a credible and transparent manner. 

The basis of STeP certification is the holistic analysis and evaluation of sustainable manufacturing conditions. Requirements must be achieved in six modules: environmental management, environmental performance, social responsibility, health and safety, quality management, and chemical management. These requirements are verified in an initial audit. During further compliance audit, the focus is also on whether recommended measures in the comprehensive STeP reports have been implemented.

The company is scored overall and for each of the six modules. The STeP scoring system has levels (1-3). While Level 1 fulfils the minimum requirements, Level 2 signifies that good implementation exists with potential for further optimization. Level 3 certifies exemplary implementation. The overall facility score is the average of the individual module results.

Again, Zimmerli of Switzerland achieved top marks in the latest STeP audits. The Swiss textile company was rated in the highest level 3 in every single module. Thus Zimmerli of Switzerland outperformed the industry benchmark. This proves again the lived sustainable mindset as an integral part of Zimmerli of Switzerland.

How does a production facility earn STeP by OEKO-TEX® certification like Zimmerli of Switzerland?

1. Fill out the application form and confirm the General Terms of Use.

2. After receiving access from the selected OEKO-TEX® institute, complete the web-based STeP assessment.

3. The institute evaluates the submitted information and documents.

4. The institute verifies the data collected during an on-site audit of the production facility.

5. After a successful verification the institute prepares a detailed audit report including a final evaluation and issues the STeP certificate, which is valid for 3 years.

This process takes an average of 3 months. The time and costs depend on the circumstances at the production site. Fees are based not only on the company size and applicable audit criteria, but also the extent to which environmental protection and social responsibility measures have already been implemented.

STeP is worth the effort and an important component of the MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® label. The MADE IN GREEN label not only tests for harmful substances, but also guarantees that products were manufactured with sustainable processes under socially responsible working conditions. More info can be found here.

“At Zimmerli of Switzerland we walk the talk. Thanks to 150 years old brand values and continuous innovation we take responsibility and improve our business practices day by day. We are proud to offer our customers full transparency on our essentials thanks to the label MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®”, says Renzo Sigrist, CMO at Zimmerli of Switzerland.

Green Button: Hohenstein is an authorised certification body

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

BÖNNIGHEIM (ivs) 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.

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.

Contact:

Hohenstein
Schlosssteige 1 
D-74357 Bönnigheim, Germany
Phone: +49 7143 271-898
Fax: +49 7143 271-51
Mail: customerservice@hohenstein.com