Sustainable Fibre Programme (SFP) consulting

Introduction to SFP

SFP stands for Sustainable Fibre Programme. It brings sustainability considerations into the textile and fashion supply chain by supporting livelihoods and wellbeing, reducing poverty and limiting environmental impacts. The programme seeks economically viable opportunities for growers, workers, consumers, policymakers and other stakeholders.

Programme objectives

SFP aims to protect livelihoods and wellbeing in fashion and textiles while reducing poverty and environmental impacts.

Topics addressed by SFP

• Farmers' welfare, labour rights and fair pricing.
• Environmental issues, including greenhouse gases, reduced contamination, water and energy conservation, and safer, more hygienic working conditions.
• Economic returns achieved fairly and transparently throughout the supply chain.

Scope and intended users

The programme covers natural fibres from agricultural, animal and insect-rearing sources.

• Plant fibres: fibres from stems, roots, leaves, seeds, bark and other plant parts.
• Animal fibres: wool from animals such as sheep.
• Fibres from insect rearing: for example, silk from silkworms.
• Tracking and tracing raw materials from certified production.

The certification system is built on environmental protection, social equity and economic viability. It draws on locally and regionally accepted agricultural and animal-husbandry practices, approved chemicals and application rates, social criteria, training and sustainable productivity. Chain-of-custody controls extend from fibre production to retail, with tools such as Trace ’N Trade supporting traceability.

The programme also includes fibre-quality parameters and laboratory analysis to support checks for contamination or mixing. The test method and its limitations must be appropriate to the material and claim being assessed.

Potential benefits of SFP certification

For businesses

SFP certification can support a business's reputation by providing evidence of conformity with the programme's requirements. Claims should match the certified scope and supporting evidence.

Its environmental, social and production controls can support responsible business practices and continual improvement.

Commercial benefits depend on customer demand, market conditions and implementation. Certification does not guarantee higher prices, revenue or profit.

For consumers

Consumers can use verified certification information to make better-informed purchasing choices. Certification alone does not establish that every product is entirely natural, harmless or beneficial to health.

Control Union - Sustainable Fiber Program