E-Toile Becomes the First OEKO-TEX STeP Certified Facility in Madagascar
E-Toile SA, based in Madagascar, has become the first facility to obtain OEKO-TEX STeP certification. The company focuses on sustainable practices and integrates advanced technologies in its operations. It aims to enhance its sustainability efforts while navigating the challenges pertaining to environmental and quality management. E-Toile seeks continuous improvement while leveraging tools like the OEKO-TEX Impact Calculator.
E-Toile SA, an apparel manufacturing company located in Antananarivo, has made history by achieving the first OEKO-TEX STeP certification in Madagascar. This facility specializes in producing protective workwear garments and is a subsidiary of the Alsico Group, which emphasizes ecological, social, and economic responsibility in its practices.
A representative from E-Toile stated, “We want to contribute to an economy that respects the planet’s boundaries and guarantees basic social rights.” This certification reflects the company’s commitment to promoting environmental responsibility and fair labor standards through efficient resource management and ongoing enhancements in their production processes.
The dedication to sustainability is evident through the implementation of advanced technologies, including energy-efficient sewing machines with LED lighting, a fully LED-lit factory, and solar panels aimed at achieving energy autonomy. Furthermore, E-Toile incorporates OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 recyclable fabrics, thereby supporting the principles of the circular economy.
While achieving the OEKO-TEX STeP certification presented challenges, particularly in managing environmental impact and quality, the company successfully addressed these through rigorous audits and support from the Alsico Group. The management has noticed significant improvements in productivity and quality due to the adoption of this system.
In a recent press release, E-Toile remarked, “Our continuous improvement strategy has contributed to a higher quality score.” The firm emphasized the comprehensive nature of the OEKO-TEX STeP certification, which consolidates multiple modules and eliminates the necessity for disparate certifications like various ISO standards.
Looking forward, E-Toile SA intends to sustain and improve its scores across all certification modules, with a particular emphasis on those that have proven most challenging. The company also utilized the OEKO-TEX Impact Calculator during the certification process, which helped identify focus areas, especially in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
E-Toile SA’s attainment of the OEKO-TEX STeP certification marks a significant milestone in Madagascar’s apparel manufacturing landscape. The company’s commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement is commendable, as it paves the way for responsible production practices. With an emphasis on enhancing operational efficiency and improving challenging aspects of certification, E-Toile is poised to strengthen its role as a leader in sustainable manufacturing in the region.
Original Source: www.fibre2fashion.com
