Cos
brand rating & evaluation
overall rating:
Average
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The Shifting Gaia rating evaluates brands based on sustainable practices, ingredients and materials, and social responsibility, among others. Below are a few factors influencing this brand's score:
certifications:
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overview
sustainability
non-toxic
social responsibility
coming
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about
COS, a brand under the H&M Group, is known for its minimalist, timeless designs. It markets itself as a sustainable option within fast fashion.
highlights
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sustainability
score:
coming
details:
COS has made some strides toward more eco-friendly practices. They aim to use 100% sustainably sourced or recycled materials by 2030. Current materials include organic cotton, TENCEL™, recycled polyester, recycled wool, and certified cashmere, with standards like the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) and the Good Cashmere Standard (GCS) applied to select products.
Additionally, COS uses FSC-certified paper for packaging and has recycling drop-off points in select regions, where customers can return used garments. This aligns with COS's stated goal of increasing circularity within its product lifecycle.
However, as part of the fast fashion industry, COS relies heavily on synthetic and mixed materials that are challenging to recycle and contribute to pollution. Its business model, which includes frequent new arrivals, emphasizes a high turnover of styles that can still encourage overconsumption. COS also lacks transparent data on water usage, energy reduction, or concrete carbon footprint reductions across its operations, limiting its accountability. While COS scored 71-80% on the 2023 Fashion Transparency Index, its commitment to emission reductions appears underdeveloped relative to some other sustainability-focused brands.
non-toxic
score:
coming
details:
COS incorporates safer and more sustainable materials in parts of its line, including organic and recycled textiles. The brand has certifications such as Bluesign® for specific processes, aimed at safer chemical management. Nevertheless, COS lacks full OEKO-TEX or GOTS certifications for their entire supply chain, meaning that not all garments meet stringent standards for avoiding harmful substances. The use of mixed fibers, common in fast fashion, also complicates recycling efforts and poses challenges for long-term non-toxicity.
social responsibility
score:
coming
details:
COS has made efforts toward better labor practices within its production network, participating in the Fashion Transparency Index and aligning some of its supply chain practices with recognized standards. However, COS does not currently ensure a living wage across all production sites, and there’s limited third-party verification of labor conditions throughout their supply chain. COS adheres to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), ensuring animal welfare in down production, and avoids materials like fur and exotic skins. Yet, concerns remain regarding worker welfare, as there’s no full disclosure on fair wage commitments or regular independent audits to verify safe working conditions.
