In today's society, where sustainability and eco-friendliness are more than just buzzwords, environmentally conscious consumers are increasingly looking for products that align with these values.
One certification that has gained prominence in this context is the Global Organic Latex Standard, commonly known as GOLS. It's a label our team often looks for when testing and reviewing eco-friendly products.
But what is GOLS certification exactly? Why does it matter, and how can you use it to be certain you're shopping for genuinely organic latex products?
If you have 3 minutes to spare, I'm about to tell you everything you need to know...
Contents
The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) is a certification program that sets the bar for what constitutes organic latex. It was established by Control Union, a globally recognized accreditation body.
GOLS aims to ensure that products made from natural rubber latex are:
This enables consumers to buy with confidence, and manufacturers to showcase their environmental credentials.
From organic mattresses and bedding to gloves, shoe soles, and even rubber toys, a wide array of products can carry the GOLS label. But only if they pass the strict criteria required.
To become GOLS organic certified, a natural latex product must contain at least 95% organic fibers.
The latex should be harvested from rubber plantations that are certified by recognized organic standards such as the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) or the European Union's organic regulations.
GOLS sets permissible limits for harmful substances, including emission test requirements and allowable percentages for polymers and fillers. This ensures that the product you're buying is as free from harmful chemicals as possible.
Environmental factors tested include the proper treatment of wastewater, reduced carbon emissions, tracked and monitored energy use and waste, and a ban on the use of plastic packaging.
There is also a requirement that manufacturers do not use potentially unsafe substances such as GMOs, heavy metals, or chlorinated bleaches.
One of the unique features of GOLS is its focus on traceability. Every material in the supply chain must be accompanied by transaction certificates, ensuring traceability from the plantation to the final retailer.
GOLS guidelines also take into account the social and humanitarian aspects of production. This includes adherence to guidelines set by the International Labor Organization (ILO), such as safe working conditions, proper wages, and a ban on child labor.
One of the most compelling reasons to opt for GOLS-certified products is the reduced exposure to harmful chemicals. Many synthetic latex products contain chemicals that can be toxic to both humans and the environment.
Products made from certified organic raw materials are notoriously far kinder to the environment. They are sourced using sustainable farming and manufacturing processes, which means a lower carbon footprint and less harm to the environment.
The rigorous criteria and traceability requirements of the GOLS standard offer an added layer of quality assurance. You can be confident that the product you're purchasing has been vetted at multiple stages of its production.
Latex is commonly used in mattresses and bedding for its comfort, durability, and natural resistance to dust mites and mold. It can be used in the core of a natural latex mattress, as a top layer.
It's also great as a pillow fill. You can find some great organic latex pillows that offer superior comfort and support for all types of sleepers.
For products that you'll be in close contact with for extended periods (8 hours a day in the case of the above examples) an organic certification ensures that you're not exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.
It also guarantees that the latex foam used is sustainably sourced, which is a plus for environmentally conscious consumers.
Latex gloves are widely used in medical settings, food handling, and general cleaning for their flexibility and barrier protection.
GOLS-certified latex gloves are not only better for the environment but also for the wearer. The stringent chemical limits set by GOLS mean less risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Latex is often used in exercise bands for its elasticity and in shoe soles for its durability and cushioning properties.
GOLS certification ensures that the latex in these products is free from harmful chemicals that could leach out during use. This is particularly important for exercise bands, which come into contact with your skin and can be used in high-heat environments like gyms.
Latex is a popular material for children's toys like rubber ducks and teething toys because of its soft, chewable texture.
Children are more susceptible to the harmful effects of chemicals, making GOLS accreditation crucial for latex-based toys. It ensures that the toys are free from toxic substances that could be ingested or absorbed through the skin.
While GOLS organic certification offers numerous benefits, it's essential to understand that it does have its limitations.
Firstly, you should be aware of what it does and does not cover. The certification applies to any natural Dunlop or Talalay latex, but it does not cover synthetic latex or other materials that may be part of the product.
For this reason, mattress manufacturers often combine it with GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification which covers the organic cotton or other fabrics in their products.
Cost is another factor. Products that have achieved any eco-certification can often come with a higher price tag, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
When shopping for GOLS-certified products, always check for the certification label, which should look something like the example in the photo above. You can also ask the retailer for transaction certificates that trace the product back to its origin.
Control Union provides a central database tool that you can use to search for certified companies. It's not the easiest to use, however, which is why most companies will also link to a copy of their certificate from their own website.
If the product you are considering does not carry the GOLS label, that doesn't necessarily mean it is bad or toxic. Other labels such as GreenGuard Gold, OEKO-TEX, and CertiPUR-US are also good indicators of organic products that are not harmful to human health.
GOLS is one of the most trustworthy labels available in today's global marketplace, and it's one we often use to help us verify the environmental and health credentials of certified organic latex products.
In fact, I'd say it's more than just a label; it's a commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. By choosing GOLS-certified products, you're not only making a healthier choice for yourself but also contributing to a more sustainable and ethical global economy.
