Responsible Wool Standard
The Responsible Wool Standard is a voluntary global standard that addresses the welfare of sheep and of the land they graze on.
Latest News
Draft Responsible Mohair Standard: stakeholder consultation launched + webinar
In response to requests from stakeholders, a draft standard for mohair production has been developed. [...]
Be a Featured Supplier!
The Responsible Wool Standard has a new web feature presenting certified suppliers from across the [...]
Season’s Greetings from the RWS
As we close out 2018, we would like to thank all of our stakeholders for [...]
Accepting Feedback: RWS 2.0 Revision Launch
The Responsible Wool Standard is pleased to announce that we are beginning the feedback process for the [...]
Our Goals
The goals of the Responsible Wool Standard are to provide the industry with a tool to recognize the best practices of farmers; ensuring that wool comes from farms with a progressive approach to managing their land, and from sheep that have been treated responsibly.
How does the RWS work?
The Responsible Wool Standard is an independent, voluntary standard, which means that companies can choose to become certified. On farms, the certification ensures that sheep are treated with respect to their five freedoms and also ensures best practices in the management and protection of the land. Through production, certification ensures that wool for certified farms is properly identified and tracked.
RWS Key Points
Protecting Animal Welfare
The Five Freedoms of sheep are protected at all times, referencing standards and best practices around the world.
Preserving Land Health
Progressive methods of land management are practiced on RWS farms, protecting soil health, biodiversity and native species.
Supply Chain Traceability
The identity of the RWS wool is maintained at all times: from the farm to the final product.
Credible Certification
A professional, third party certification body audits each stage in the supply chain.
Confident Communication
Only products with 100% certified wool may carry the RWS logo.
Stakeholder Engagement
The RWS was developed with the input of farmers, animal welfare experts, land conservation experts, brands and retailers from all parts of the globe.