Implementing our Standards
We require all of our partners to commit to the hessnatur guidelines regarding socially responsible manufacturing. We personally audit the factories where we do business.
We are also a member of the FairWear Foundation, an independent organization, whose work it is to improve the working conditions of people involved in the garment manufacturing industry. Its member organizations represent all facets of the textile industry, including unions, NGO’s and trade associations, which help ensure independence and objectivity. The FairWear Foundation does unannounced audits of factories and manages any complaints from workers. They also train local teams within the production countries to audit the factories of suppliers.
With the FairWear Foundation we support and mentor our suppliers throughout the implementation process as well as initiating audits of factories. Complaint systems are encouraged through a neutral contact person, so workers have a key individual to give them advice and support as well as involving the FairWear Foundation. Problems are resolved with the involvement of hessnatur and our partners.
Every year, hssnatur publishes a report, detailing the number of suppliers by country, the auditing and monitoring results and the complaints. The FairWear Foundation supports and verifies the work of hessnatur.
The Clean Clothes Campaign, comprised of coalitions of NGO’s, consumers’, women’s and fair trade organizations and trade unions, is committed to improving working conditions and empowering workers in the global garment industry. Their primary aim is to end oppression, exploitation and abuse of workers in this industry, most of whom are women. The Clean Clothes Campaign also explores legal remedies for improving working conditions, lobbies for legislation to promote good working conditions and for laws that would compel governments and companies to act ethically. As an active partner, we fully endorse the work of this important organization.
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