News & Events

1. New certification scheme - changes to audit periods
2. GRS partially recognised as the underlying certification scheme
3. Future changes to product follow-up reports

New Certification Scheme

The certification scheme 3.0 is in effect since 05.10.2020 and replaces the previous version 2.9. It is also valid for existing companies.

Among other things, there are no longer any general audit lengths. These must be calculated according to fixed rules, depending on the size and complexity of the company and the supply chains.

The audits have to be carried out every 12 months. The time frame for the supervisory audit can be extended to up to 15 months, after which the 12-month period applies again.

GRS partially recognised as the underlying certification scheme

GRS (Global Recycled Standard) has been recognised as fulfilling all social criteria and environmental criteria, with the exception of the criterion for residue testing. GRS must therefore be combined with the Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex seal to prove compliance with all requirements. A minimum 50% content of GRS materials in the product is required here.

Further information, as well as the GRS application form, can be found on our website at https://controlunion-germany.com/en/certification-programs/grs-global-recycled-standard

Future changes to product follow-up reports

For now, this is just a reminder that a new list for product re-registrations will be sent to you soon, once it has been finalised by Grüner Knopf.

There will then be changes to the product re-registration, depending on whether the re-registered products come from supply chains that have already been audited (notification directly via the issuance portal), or from new suppliers/producers ( CU still needs to be notified). It is not yet known when this will take effect. We will then inform you about the details.