rds

RDS – Responsible Down Standard

The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) is a certification program for the ethical treatment of birds in the down industry. Control Union Certifications BV is accredited by SLAB for this scheme under registration nr. CP 004-01.

Apply now for the RDS standard
Responsible Down Standard
    Responsible Down Standard

    About the standard

    As awareness around responsible sourcing continues to grow, the textile industry is placing greater emphasis on the origin of animal-derived materials such as down, feathers, wool, angora, cashmere, and leather. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) provides a trusted framework to ensure animal welfare throughout the making process.

    Apply now for the RDS standard

    Accreditation

    The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) ensures that down industry uses birds that have been treated ethically. Control Union Certifications BV is officially accredited for this certification by SLAB, under registration number CP 004-01.

    Learn more about the standard
    RDS

    How you benefit

    To help drive continuous improvement in animal welfare across the down industry, Control Union conducts audits to ensure your supply chain meets the Responsible Down Standard (RDS) requirements. Developed in collaboration with The North Face and Textile Exchange, RDS is the result of a broad stakeholder consultation involving global supply chain partners and leading animal welfare organisations. The standard covers the entire down supply chain, from farms and slaughterhouses (focused on animal welfare) to processors and garment manufacturers (ensuring traceability

    Control Union performs audits to check whether your supply chain complies with the standard. Audits are carried out by CU’s global network of local, qualified and experienced auditors. Furthermore, CU can help in providing to you supply chain personnel with in-depth information on the standard and compliance requirements before the audit process.

    Control Union can perform inspections for any required indicator from animal welfare to social compliance and sustainability and can assist companies in mapping and analysing their supply chains. We can also develop standards for other input materials.

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    How can we help you?

    Are you looking for a certain service or do you have any questions about the certification program? Let us know. We are glad to help.

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