RAS – Responsible Alpaca Standard
The Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS) provides an opportunity for farmers to demonstrate their best practices to the public, and a means for brands and consumers to have the certainty that the alpaca fibre products they buy and sell are in line with their values. Control Union provides third-party certification to the RAS, offering credible confirmation of responsible practices that meet customer requirements for ethically sourced products.
What is RAS?
The Responsible Alpaca Standard safeguards the welfare of alpacas and the ecosystems around them. The Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS) is a voluntary standard that requires all sites, from alpaca farms through to the seller in the final business-to-business transaction, to be certified. RAS farmers and herders must meet animal welfare, land management, and social requirements.
Why choose Control Union as your certification partner
Partner for responsible brands
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Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.
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We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.
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Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.
Modules
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Farm
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COC
Benefits of being RAS certified
Comprehensive animal welfare
Ensures the welfare of alpacas by protecting their Five Freedoms, from birth to the end of life.
Progressive land management
Promotes practices that protect soil health, biodiversity, and native species on alpaca farms.
Social responsibility
Upholds the health, safety, and welfare of workers, ensuring fair and ethical labour practices.
Credible Chain of Custody
Maintains the integrity of certified material through all stages of alpaca fibre processing and trade.
Confident market claims
Allows certified products to be labelled with the RAS logo, communicating commitment to customers.
The Future of Textiles is Circular
Essential information for every professional in the textile chain. Read all about the new regulations, targets, and market opportunities for 2025-2030.
Download the ‘Policy Programme for circular textile 2025-2030′
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Global coverage, local knowledge
Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions. As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications? Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!
Years of experience
Offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
Proud colleagues
RMS – Responsible Mohair Standard
The RMS is a comprehensive mohair standard that provides a strong chain of custody for certified materials, from farm to final product. It gives the industry a tool to recognise and reward best practices in land management and animal welfare. For organisations, achieving certification against this standard is a definitive way to meet customer requirements for responsible sourcing. Control Union’s expert auditing services support businesses in demonstrating this commitment, strengthening sustainability claims and building market trust.
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RWS – Responsible Wool Standard
The RWS offers a straightforward solution for brands to make confident claims about their wool sourcing, providing consumers with certainty that their products align with their values. For farmers, it is an opportunity to have their best practices confirmed at the farm level, covering both animal welfare and land stewardship. As a member of the technical group involved in the standard’s development, Control Union has performed RWS audits globally and is positioned to support organisations in achieving certification.
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SFP – Sustainable Fiber Program
The Sustainable Fibre Programme (SFP) is an audited certification for the fashion and textile industry. It aims to safeguard livelihoods and minimise environmental impact by translating sustainable concepts into achievable practices. Control Union provides an independent, third-party assessment for this standard, confirming an organisation’s commitment to quality and sustainability in the fashion industry.
More info
Request certification or discuss without obligation?
We are here to assist anytime! You can apply for this certification directly using the application form below. For any other questions or if you want to freely discuss, contact us at +31 (0)38 42 60 103 or textilenl@controlunion.com.
Independent tailor-made services
What makes you unique, we make demonstrable
Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.
