At the start of the year, the OEKO-TEX® Association as usual updates the applicable test criteria, limit values and requirements for its range of certifications and labels. These new regulations come into effect on September 16th, 2025. Since the publication of the new regulations in January further updates were made. The changes in limit values can be found in a separate document. The following changes were made for OEKO-TEX® STeP:
OEKO-TEX® STeP Standard 02.2025
Biodiversity is a fundamental pillar of environmentally responsible and sustainable textile and leather production. As global awareness of corporate responsibility grows, biodiversity is gaining importance — healthy ecosystems are essential for long-term economic stability and success. The loss of biodiversity threatens the very natural resources that many industries depend on.
OEKO-TEX® STeP certified facilities have already made remarkable progress in minimizing environmental impact. Through initiatives such as monitoring water consumption, recycling wastewater, adopting greener chemistry, and preventing soil contamination and air pollution, they are setting industry benchmarks for sustainability.
Building on this strong foundation, we have expanded the OEKO-TEX® STeP criteria to further promote biodiversity. The updated standard places greater emphasis on sustainable raw material sourcing and the protection of natural habitats—proactively addressing practices that contribute to biodiversity loss.
By strengthening these criteria, we continue to drive meaningful change, ensuring that sustainability efforts not only protect the environment but also safeguard the future of the textile and leather industry.
Environmental Performance
4.2.1 Purpose
The environmental performance of the facility shall be considered at all times and particular attention shall be paid to minimizing negative impacts on ecosystems, protecting natural habitats, and avoiding practices that lead to the deterioration of biological diversity.
Environmental and Energy Management
4.3.1 Purpose
An effective Environmental Management System shall include the results of an assessment regarding the significance of the facility's impact on biodiversity and the direct influence of the company on biodiversity (e.g. biodiversity hotspots, sensitive areas, and species of concern)
4.3.10.1 Performing an environmental impact assessment
The facility shall develop an understanding of how it interacts with the environment and their influences on biodiversity and ecosystem function. That includes the proportion of its activities and products that may affect the environment.
4.3.10.1 Performing an environmental impact assessment
The facility shall identify and document any environmental aspects that have a direct and indirect impact on the environment. The record shall cover the consequences for ecosystems and biodiversity loss.
For more information on the new OEKO-TEX® test criteria, please contact OEKO-TEX® or your local OEKO-TEX® institute.
