Which fibers and materials are within scope of the Materials Matter Standard?

The first edition of the Materials Matter Standard covers: 

• Materials in the Responsible Animal Fiber framework (wool, alpaca, mohair) 

• Recycled materials covered in the Global Recycled Standard and Recycled Claim Standard 

Organic cotton, which has long been an integral part of Textile Exchange’s standards system, will continue to play a central role through a gradual transition pathway for the Organic Content Standard into the Materials Matter System. This pathway will preserve essential functions such as traceability while strengthening the system to enable more holistic, farmer-centered outcomes. 

Looking ahead, Textile Exchange intends to expand the system through partnerships with credible programs that align with their shared vision for climate and nature impact. This includes exploring pathways for fibers such as cotton produced through preferred production systems and man-made cellulosic fibers.  

By collaborating with established partners and bringing efforts together under one framework, Textile Exchange aims to reduce duplication, ease the burden on suppliers, and enable brands to more easily source materials that deliver measurable benefits on the ground. This partnership-driven approach is designed to broaden opportunity and impact across the industry while accelerating progress for climate, nature, people, and animals. 

Down  
Down will not be included in the first version of the Materials Matter Standard. Piloting and consultation in 2024 identified key challenges in aligning the Responsible Down Standard and the Materials Matter Standard, namely the introduction of new criteria and the accompanying need for robust engagement to support the transition at Tier 4. We are taking additional time to identify how to resolve these challenges. 

 
Brands and producers can continue using the Responsible Down Standard and making claims according to the Standards Claims Policy.