Responsible Down Standard (RDS)
The Responsible Down Standard is an independent, voluntary global standard, which means that companies can choose to certify their products to the RDS, even if there is no legislation requiring them to do so. 
RDS certification applies to all supply chain sites of waterfowl down and feather material from the hatchery to the seller in the last business-to-business transaction.
The Responsible Down Standard aims to ensure that down and feathers come from animals that have not been subjected to an unnecessary harm. It is our hope that the standard can be used to reward and influence the down and feather industry to incentivize practices that respect the humane treatment of ducks and geese. We believe that education – through the RDS – is a meaningful way to drive demand for strong animal welfare practices. The standard also provides companies and consumers with a tool to know what is in their products, and to make accurate claims.
The RDS Certification Process
Application and contract
You can apply online for the RDS Certification or complete the Application form and return it to GCL International Ltd. head office or one of our local office. We will use the application details to produce a quotation.
Once the quotation has been accepted, we will ask you to return a signed copy of the quotation and our Scheme Rules.
Preparation for the Initial RDS Certification Audit
The following documents are supplied prior to the initial certification:
- Briefing information about the RDS Standard;
- Standard and Implementation Manual;
- Document checklist;
- Inspection report which includes inspection checklists, list of suppliers and subcontractors.
Initial Certification Audit
- Opening meeting
- On-site Audit
- Preparation of Audit Report (including Findings)
- Closing meeting
Following the completion of the inspection, a report detailing the findings is provided. Subject to the closure of any non-conformances or findings (if any), a Scope Certificate is issued.
Labelling Release
Whenever the client wishes to have its artwork approved, the proposed artwork and Labelling Release form shall be submitted to GCL International for approval.
Transaction Certificate
- The certified client may request a Transaction Certificate by emailing us.
- Send a Transaction Certificate Request form and associated documents to us.
- If approved by us, the Transaction Certificate is issued to the client.
Re-Assessment or Annual Audit
GCL International will communicate with the client to plan for the re-assessment and to determine if there have been any changes, such as: production units, subcontractors, recipes or new suppliers. An audit report must be completed by the client and returned to us.
GCL International will conduct the re-assessment.
Following the completion of the audit, a report detailing the findings is provided. Subject to the closure of any non-conformances or findings (if any), a certificate with TE labelling is issued.