Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and Global Recycled Standard (GRS)

What is Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and Global Recycled Standard (GRS)?

Both the Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) are globally recognised, voluntary guidelines that establish requirements for third-party validation of recycled materials and chain of custody. They underscore the importance of traceability of recycled materials and integrity of the claimed material’s attributes from the original input source to the final product.

However, GRS sets a higher bar with a greater minimum requirement for recycled content percentage and imposes extra socio-environmental stipulations related to processing and chemical use.

The three main objectives of RCS and GRS:

• Align definitions of “recycled” across different applications.
• Verify recycled content in products.
• Give brands and consumers a means to make informed buying decisions.

Additional objectives of GRS:

• Reduce the harmful impact of production on people and the environment.
• Provide assurance that products are processed in a more climate-friendly way.
• Encourage higher proportions of recycled content in products.

RCS and GRS Certification Workflow

Obtaining a RCS/GRS certificate is a critical process for businesses looking to showcase their commitment to using recycled materials in their products. To secure any or both of these recycled materials certifications, organisations must follow a systematic workflow consisting of six essential steps.

What TÜV SÜD Can Do For You

TÜV SÜD is equipped to offer RCS and GRS certification services for your entire supply chain, encompassing material recyclers, suppliers, finished product manufacturers, subcontractors, traders, and brands., etc.

Upon successful completion of the certification audit, the company will be granted a scope certificate. Throughout the scope certificate's validity period, TÜV SÜD can issue transaction certificates for each shipment of certified products, ensuring continued compliance and recognition of your commitment to sustainability.

The final certified product shall contain the minimum required certified material as outlined below:

RCS and GRS Benefits to Customers

Acquiring RCS and GRS certifications offers numerous benefits for businesses in the supply chain, as it reinforces the credibility of their claims, showcases their commitment to integrity, and guarantees a secure chain of custody for recycled materials.

Credible Claims 

Brands need to be assured that the claims they present to consumers are factual. Through certification, a credible validation is offered for suppliers and brands, ensuring that the claims are indeed accurate.

Demonstrates Commitment to Integrity 

The certification process allows suppliers to clearly articulate their commitments, which are then verified by an impartial third party. This validation process can elevate confidence in you as a supplier.

Chain of Custody

Certification ensures that the identity of the recycled content is preserved from the raw material stage to the final product. The management of RCS and GRS incorporates the inputs of producers, suppliers, brands, and retailers from around the world, further enhancing its integrity and transparency.

Why Choose TÜV SÜD in Getting RCS and GRS certifications

TÜV SÜD boasts a team of highly qualified sustainability experts who possess the skills and knowledge to apply sustainability concepts to your business. Our professionals are equipped to provide reliable guidance tailored to your country and customers' jurisdictions. Furthermore, we offer innovative strategies for the development of sustainable design, ensuring your organisation's commitment to eco-friendly practices is both robust and efficient.

With expertise spanning various industry sectors, TÜV SÜD is well-positioned to support your certification journey, helping you navigate the complex process and achieve successful certification. As a one-stop provider for social, environmental, and chemical management audits, TÜV SÜD streamlines the certification process, allowing you to focus on maintaining and enhancing your organisation's sustainable practices while building trust with consumers and partners alike.

TÜV SÜD (China) is accredited by IOAS for the scope of product certification. Accreditation number: 148. Please refer to www.ioas.org/accreditation/accredited-bodies/ for current information.

a. Content Claim Standard (CCS) 

b. CCS Certification Procedures

c. Global Recycled Standard (GRS)

d. GRS Implementation Manual 

e. Recycled Claim Standard (RCS)  

f. RCS Implementation Manual  

g. Standards Claims Policy  

h. Standard Logo Use Specifications