Ecological responsibility
Our products are made from materials made from natural fibers. For example, a large portion of the cotton in our clothing and accessories comes from certified organic farming (kbA cotton).
We have this high standard regularly confirmed by the renowned Dutch “Control Union,” which certifies the raw materials we use according to the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
In addition to our use of organically grown cotton, we are also certified according to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), a leading standard for ethical and sustainable wool production. This certification by the renowned Control Union guarantees that the wool in our products comes from sources that meet strict criteria regarding animal welfare and environmental impact, including the avoidance of mulesing and the promotion of biodiversity through sustainable pasture management.
In addition, all materials we use that are not covered by this certification are also regularly and intensively tested for harmful substances by the internationally recognized Intertek testing laboratory. Tests are carried out for AZO dyes and
Heavy metals, PCP, TeCP, and pesticides, as well as phthalates in the case of prints. We only accept the goods from our manufacturers once they have passed all tests.
Further information on the Intertek Institute's test methods can be found here
Social responsibility
All Merino wool and organic cotton garments in our range are manufactured by our main supplier in New Delhi. This company is also GOTS-certified. This ensures that acceptable social standards and decent working conditions are maintained locally. We actively support a few suppliers who are not yet certified in their certification process.
By purchasing our hand-knitted goods in the southeast Indian city of Auroville, HIMALAYA also supports a very special project.
Auroville - Our hand-knitted production facility is hidden in the midst of this green idyll.
In this project, women from very poor backgrounds are given, for the first time in their lives, not only the chance of a regular income, but also good working conditions, even from a European perspective.
You can also rely on the benefits of health insurance and a pension fund.
In the traditional cross-legged position – the knitters find it more comfortable to work on the floor. For this reason, all employees and visitors are required to walk barefoot.
For more information about the unusual town of Auroville, click here .