ACC_??&Vida_1_GlobalMamas_sm.jpg

As we previously shared, finding the right cotton producer has been quite a journey and we’re pleased to be able to introduce you to our new Indian partners at Silk’n Fab. Anuj Kanodia and his wife Tanu jointly run this family business that’s now in its 4th generation of textile production, maintaining relationships with cotton farmers Anuj’s father started working with in the 1970s. All of their cotton is grown on farms in South India, where it’s also woven and spun before being transported to the Silk’n Fab facilities located just south of Delhi. Here the textiles are carefully inspected and packed before leaving for their international destinations. From boll to finished fabric, all of their processes are GOTS and FLOCERT certified and the company also undergoes additional audits by brands they work with throughout the year.

Collaboration Innovation Sustainability
Rows of organically grown cotton plants at one of Silk’n Fabs farm partners.

Although Silk’n Fab still offers conventional cotton in various weaves and weights, in the 1990s the Kanodia’s played a significant role in supporting farmers wishing to convert their lands from growing conventional to organic cotton. Anuj’s father Arun, a veteran in the textile business, initiated the change: motivated by the wish to save future generations from the ill effects of the chemicals being used. While a seemingly straightforward procedure (just stop using chemicals?!) finding other ways to maintain yields and manage pests and weeds without using pesticides and fertilizers presents a learning curve. Some of the most common techniques used to compensate for the chemicals include crop rotation, intercropping, minimum tillage, animal manures, and composting.

Fabric%20Packing%20Area
Fabric packing area of Silk’n Fab’s facility just south of Delhi in North India.

By choosing to maintain the internationally recognized GOTS certification throughout their supply chain Silk’n Fab has both environmental and social policies that they must follow—regulating everything from labor welfare to water quality. At the processing and manufacturing stage there are many restricted chemicals, metals and agents that may be examined in greater detail on their website. GOTS Environmental Criteria also address details such as the mandatory use of recycled paper/cardboard for all packaging and hang tags, wastewater being properly treated, and no packaging, printing, or accessories containing PVC.

The list of mandatory Social Criteria that GOTS members must adhere to is also extensive, and based on the key norms required by the International Labor Organisation (ILO). Implementation of these standards and how they are verified by Control Union in the Netherlands (Silk’n Fabs approved Certification Body) may be studied in the GOTS “Manual for Implementation”, also available on their website.

The GOTS Social Critieria for certified textiles ensure:

  • Employment is freely chosen
  • Freedom of association & the right to collective bargaining are respected
  • Working conditions are safe & hygienic
  • Child labour must not be used
  • Living wages
  • Working hours are not excessive
  • No discrimination is practiced
  • Regular employment is provided
  • Harsh or inhumane treatment is prohibited
Testing different sample materials from Silk’n Fab with the Global Mamas’ batik treatment!
Testing different sample materials from Silk’n Fab with the Global Mamas’ batik treatment!

In addition to following the requirements set forth by GOTS and FLOCERT to maintain their 3rd party certifications, training is an integral part of Silk’n Fabs process. From fabric, to shipping, anybody employed in their Gurugram facility goes through an orientation program ranging from 1 week to 1 month, depending on the skills required to get them on board with their standard operating processes. Each department has committees that review and maintain safety procedures to keep them up to date.

Beyond talking about it, we’re SO excited to get this new organic product into the hands of our customers later this Spring. We hope that knowing the process has been thoroughly examined inside and out (before even getting to the hands of our Quality Control team) makes that new cotton feel, EXTRA luxurious!

Shopping Cart