E-Toile Achieves First OEKO-TEX STeP Certification in Madagascar

E-Toile SA has become the first OEKO-TEX STeP certified facility in Madagascar, emphasizing sustainability and social responsibility in apparel manufacturing. The company employs advanced technologies for efficiency and aims to improve its environmental practices continuously, using tools like the OEKO-TEX Impact Calculator.

E-Toile SA, a prominent apparel manufacturing facility in Antananarivo, has distinguished itself as the inaugural OEKO-TEX STeP certified facility in Madagascar, focusing on protective workwear garments. As a subsidiary of the Alsico Group, the company emphasizes ecological, social, and economic sustainability in its operations. A representative from E-Toile remarked, “We want to contribute to an economy that respects the planet’s boundaries and guarantees basic social rights.”
The OEKO-TEX STeP certification highlights E-Toile’s commitment to environmental sustainability and equitable labor standards. It promotes efficient resource utilization, effective chemical management, and a continuous improvement ethos in production processes. “Being OEKO-TEX STeP certified strengthens our position as a sustainable producer,” explained the representative, while underscoring the necessity for assistance from TESTEX / OEKO-TEX to enhance communication regarding these initiatives.
To bolster efficiency and sustainability, E-Toile SA has adopted advanced technologies, such as energy-efficient sewing machines with LED lighting, a fully illuminated factory, solar panel installations for energy independence, and the utilization of OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 recyclable fabrics, thereby supporting the circular economy.
The journey to achieve OEKO-TEX STeP certification was fraught with challenges, particularly concerning environmental and quality management. Nevertheless, with guidance from the Alsico Group and a focus on continuous improvement, E-Toile successfully overcame these hurdles. Management has noted definitive enhancements in productivity and quality, stating, “Our continuous improvement strategy has contributed to a higher quality score.”
In comparing OEKO-TEX STeP to other industry certifications, E-Toile emphasized its holistic framework, which incorporates various modules, thus eliminating the necessity for multiple certifications such as different ISO standards. The company intends to sustain and enhance its performance across all modules, particularly those that pose significant challenges.
Additionally, E-Toile SA utilized the OEKO-TEX Impact Calculator throughout the certification process, which enabled the company to identify areas requiring greater focus, especially in reducing gas emissions.

In conclusion, E-Toile SA stands as the first OEKO-TEX STeP certified facility in Madagascar, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility in the apparel industry. By leveraging innovative technologies and holistic management practices, the company not only enhances its operational efficiency but also strives to improve its sustainability scores. The integration of the OEKO-TEX Impact Calculator further supports its goal of minimizing environmental impacts, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to responsible manufacturing.

Original Source: www.fibre2fashion.com