Consumers all around the world are becoming much more conscious and aware of what products they’re buying and the processes behind them. They have demonstrated a preference towards products that have international certifications, such as the WRAP Certificate, but what does that entail, precisely?
Let’s begin with what WRAP is. The Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) is an international non-profit organization that promotes ethical and sustainable manufacturing processes. It’s currently the leader in certification programs in apparel and has worked together with the International Labor Organization (ILO), the United Nations (UN), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to build frameworks for regulations.
WRAP has 12 principles which serve as the pillars for their compliance and have been based on existing international regulations created by the ILO, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the OECD’s Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. The principles include human resources management, providing health and safety to employees all across the production line, and applying environmental practices through all stages of manufacturing.
But why should a business act towards having the WRAP certificate? What are the benefits? It’s simple. Because the WRAP is internationally renowned, it elevates the company’s profile and makes it more attractive to consumers and to investors. Having the certificate shows that the facility is complying with high environmental and social standards. The business becomes synonymous with caring for workers, the environment and a better, more sustainable economy.
There’s a reason why international certifications have become more valuable over time. Being backed up by a big worldwide non-profit can support businesses that want to become more sustainable. On the flip-side, consumers will be more likely to stick with businesses that share their values, and will be happy to know that more companies are becoming sustainable.
If you want to learn more about how to become a WRAP certified business or provider, click here.
