Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) Certification

What is Recycled Claim Standard (RCS)?

The Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) is an internationally recognized chain of custody standard that verifies the presence and amount of recycled material in a final product. The standard provides independent third-party verification of recycled content throughout the supply chain, from the source of the recycled material to the finished product.

RCS certification promotes transparency and consistency in recycled content claims, helping organizations demonstrate the use of recycled materials in their products.

Scope of RCS Certification

RCS certification applies to products containing recycled materials and covers the processing, manufacturing, packaging, trading, and distribution of certified products throughout the supply chain.

The standard can be applied to a wide range of product categories, including:

  • Textile products

  • Apparel and garments

  • Plastic products

  • Paper products

  • Metal products

  • Packaging materials

  • Other products containing recycled content

Certification Categories

RCS 100

Applicable to products containing at least 95% certified recycled material.

RCS Blended

Applicable to products containing between 5% and 94% certified recycled material.

Both certification categories provide verified claims regarding the recycled content present in certified products.

Objectives of RCS

The Recycled Claim Standard aims to:

  • Verify the presence and amount of recycled material in products

  • Establish a transparent chain of custody throughout the supply chain

  • Support accurate recycled content claims

  • Enhance traceability of recycled materials

  • Increase confidence among brands, retailers, and consumers

  • Promote the use of recycled materials in manufacturing processes

Certification Process

1. Application

The certification process begins with the submission of an application outlining the organization’s activities, products, facilities, and supply chain operations.

2. Documentation Review

Relevant records and operational procedures are reviewed to assess compliance with RCS requirements.

3. On-Site Audit

A qualified auditor conducts an on-site assessment to verify recycled material handling, traceability systems, inventory controls, and record-keeping practices.

4. Evaluation of Findings

Audit findings are reviewed, and any identified non-conformities must be addressed before certification can be granted.

5. Certification Decision

Upon successful completion of the certification requirements, a Scope Certificate is issued.

6. Transaction Certificates

Certified organizations may request Transaction Certificates (TCs) to verify shipments of certified recycled products throughout the supply chain.

7. Annual Certification Audit

Organizations must undergo annual audits to maintain certification and demonstrate ongoing compliance with the standard.

Benefits of RCS Certification

  • Independent verification of recycled content

  • Enhanced supply chain transparency and traceability

  • Increased credibility of recycled material claims

  • Improved customer and stakeholder confidence

  • Recognition by international brands and retailers

  • Support for sustainable sourcing initiatives

  • Demonstration of commitment to responsible resource management

Who Can Be Certified?

RCS certification is applicable to organizations involved in:

  • Recycling Operations

  • Material Processing

  • Yarn Manufacturing

  • Fabric Production

  • Garment Manufacturing

  • Packaging Production

  • Trading Activities

  • Warehousing and Distribution

  • Other supply chain operations handling certified recycled materials

Maintaining Certification

Certified organizations are required to maintain effective traceability systems, accurate records, and compliance with RCS requirements. Annual certification audits help ensure the continued integrity of recycled content claims throughout the supply chain.