If you’re looking to source sustainable promotional products, you’ve probably come across terms like GRS and RCS. These are not just buzzwords—they’re globally recognised certification standards that help verify recycled content in materials and products. But what exactly do they mean, and how do you know which is right for your business?
Let’s break it down.
What is GRS?
GRS stands for Global Recycled Standard. It is a comprehensive certification that not only verifies recycled content, but also looks at social, environmental, and chemical practices throughout the entire supply chain.
Key features of GRS:
- Requires a minimum of 20% recycled content, but many certified products contain much more.
- Tracks the product journey from recycling stage to final sale, known as chain of custody.
- Includes strict criteria for ethical and environmental practices, including worker rights, water usage, and chemical restrictions.
This makes GRS a more holistic certification, appealing to businesses that want deeper sustainability assurances across all aspects of production.
What is RCS?
RCS stands for Recycled Claim Standard. It focuses solely on verifying the recycled content in a product, without assessing other environmental or social factors.
Key features of RCS:
- Comes in two versions:
- RCS 100 – for products made with 100% recycled content.
- RCS Blended – for products that contain a minimum of 5% recycled content.
- Also includes chain of custody tracking, ensuring the recycled content is verified from source to finished product.
RCS is ideal if your primary concern is transparency around how much of the material is actually recycled—without the added cost or complexity of broader sustainability audits.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Choose GRS if… | Choose RCS if… |
|---|---|
| You want a higher sustainability standard across the supply chain. | You mainly want to verify recycled content levels. |
| You prioritise ethical sourcing and social compliance. | You need a cost-effective solution for lower-volume or simpler projects. |
| You want to support broader environmental and social responsibility goals. | You want to make a clear, accurate claim about recycled content. |
Final Thoughts
As demand grows for eco-conscious promotional products, certifications like GRS and RCS give businesses the confidence that their merchandise lives up to sustainability claims. Understanding the difference helps you make informed choices—and gives your customers the transparency they increasingly expect.
If you’re not sure which option suits your campaign best, we’re here to help. Get in touch and we’ll guide you through choosing the right certified products for your brand’s values and goals.