Take responsibility – for people, materials and the future
For us, sustainability does not start with the product, but with our mindset. At De Berkel we see it as an attitude: using resources consciously, selecting durable materials and ensuring fair conditions at every stage of production. Because real quality only arises where responsibility is taken into account - today, tomorrow and for future generations.
Our fields of action
Product policy and raw materials
Sustainability is a central element of our product policy – and a real unique selling point. The high quality standards are firmly anchored in quality management and have been certified by DEKRA according to DIN EN ISO 9001 since 1993.
Employees
We embrace our ecological and social responsibility by ensuring fair working conditions and the protection of employee rights. Our production partners must also meet high social standards, which are monitored through regular audits.
Logistics & Planning
The shipping boxes for our products are made from 100% recycled (post-production recyclate) and biodegradable materials. We also rely on environmentally friendly disposal and recycling, such as processing worn work clothing into felt rolls.
Energy management
Reducing CO2 emissions is a top priority, supported by our own hydroelectric power plants and PV systems. In 2025, 41% of the energy requirements in Poland came from renewable sources.
Our seals at a glance
Green button
- The seal is issued by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
- The Green Button seal makes sustainably produced textiles visible.
- The Green Button sets binding requirements to ensure that neither people nor nature are harmed.
Cotton made in Africa
- An initiative of the Aid by Trade Foundation.
- As a partner of Cotton made in Africa, we demand socially and ecologically sustainable cotton. Every product with the “Supporting the Cotton made in Africa Initiative” label helps to ensure that small farmers are trained in efficient and sustainable farming methods. They and their families benefit from this and the environment is protected.
OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100
Our raw materials, certified according to OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, have been independently tested for harmful substances according to extensive scientific criteria.
OEKO-TEX® STeP
Our factories have been certified according to OEKO-TEX® STeP after a comprehensive analysis and assessment of chemical management, environmental performance, environmental management, worker health and safety, social responsibility and quality management.
OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN
Our products bearing the OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN label have been extensively tested in accordance with the OEKO-TEX® safety criteria for consumer health and are manufactured in certified and audited production facilities.
TENCEL™
- TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers are produced with at least 50% less CO2 emissions and water consumption*
- TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers are obtained from the natural raw material wood
- TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers support a naturally dry feeling through moisture regulation
TENCEL™ is a trademark of Lenzing AG
*Compared to generic Lyocell and Modal. Results are based on LCA standards (ISO 14040/44) and are available via Higg MSI (version 3.8).
Alliance for Sustainable Textiles
Member of the Alliance for Sustainable Textiles.
UPV Textile
De Berkel joined the UPV Textiel Foundation at the end of 2022. UPV stands for “Uitgebreide Producenten Verantwoordelijkheid” (Extended Producer Responsibility). Through a joint approach, participants comply with new legislation on the disposal phase of the clothing and textiles they market and sell in our country.
By 2025, 50% of all discarded textiles must be collected and prepared for reuse or recycling, and by 2030 this should be 75%. For this purpose, a common collection, monitoring and reporting system was developed in early 2025.
Certifications & Standards
Our sustainable measures are regularly certified and checked. In addition to its long-standing ISO 9001:2015 certification, De Berkel achieved ISO 14001 certification in 2025 in order to systematically embedecological responsibility.
