“RJC: A Key Standard Why Modern Jewelry Businesses Must Care About Environmental Sustainability”
“RJC: A Key Standard Why Modern Jewelry Businesses Must Care About Environmental Sustainability”
In today’s world, consumers are increasingly asking, “Where do the products I use come from?” Businesses can no longer focus solely on producing beautiful products; they must also consider environmental responsibility and human rights throughout their supply chains. Companies that can achieve this will gain long-term advantages—especially in the jewelry industry. The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has become a crucial standard recognized by manufacturers, stakeholders in the industry, and jewelry and gemstone traders worldwide. RJC is not merely a “certification standard” but rather a reflection of an organization’s vision for transparency, verifiable accountability, ethical business practices, and a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.
What is the RJC Standard?
RJC (Responsible Jewellery Council) is an international non-profit organization with the primary objective of developing standards of ethical, social, and environmental responsibility in the jewelry and gemstone industry. Members of RJC range from mining companies, precious metal manufacturers, and production factories to major global retailers such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and De Beers.
At present, there are more than 2,000 member companies from over 70 countries worldwide, and every company must comply with RJC standards to demonstrate responsibility toward both consumers and the planet.
RJC and Environmental Sustainability: Beyond Beautiful Jewelry, Toward True Sustainability
The RJC Code of Practices consists of four main principles of focus: Business Ethics, Human Rights and Social Performance, Environmental Performance—such as minimizing environmental impacts, utilizing resources efficiently, and managing waste and pollution appropriately—and Management Systems. In this article, we will take a deeper look into the information and key insights regarding “Environmental Performance.”
The RJC standards are not limited solely to ethics and human rights, but also extend to “environmental sustainability.” This has become an increasingly important issue for many businesses in today’s era of global warming, along with the shifting behaviors and expectations of consumers.
โดย SCS Globalhas provided insightful information regarding the environmental aspects within the RJC standards, which include:
Waste and hazardous chemical management in production processes such as plating, polishing, etc.”
Efficient use of energy and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Water conservation and wastewater management.
Sourcing raw materials from sustainable sources, such as recycled metals or environmentally certified mines.
Reducing the use of natural resources throughout the supply chain.
These aspects are mandated under the RJC Code of Practices (COP), the principal standard that all RJC members must comply with. Compliance is verified through external audits conducted every three years.
What are the key opportunities for businesses in Thailand’s jewelry industry, and what competitive advantages would they gain if they succeed?
Thailand’s jewelry industry has strengths in craftsmanship, skilled labor, and cost advantages. However, in today’s era where ESG and Carbon Footprint are increasingly emphasized, producing products that are only ‘beautiful’ and ‘low-cost’ may no longer be sufficient.
How can adopting the RJC standard help businesses in Thailand grow ?
Able to compete sustainably in the global market, not only by offering competitive prices but also by gaining opportunities and greater marketing advantages.”
Increase opportunities to participate in the international supply chains of luxury brands and global retailers.
Reduce the risk of future trade barriers, such as EU and U.S. regulations that strictly control raw materials from conflict-affected areas (Conflict Minerals)
Build trust with modern consumers. Many buyers place importance on the ‘origin’ of raw materials. If a product is certified by RJC, it will significantly enhance credibility and increase sales opportunities.
Addressing ESG and SDGs: The RJC standards strengthen a company’s alignment with ESG principles (Environment, Social, Governance) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Enhance brand image as ‘Green Jewellery,’ reflecting the organization’s commitment to prioritizing environmental issues.
The opportunities mentioned above are only part of the benefits. There are still many more advantages, including demonstrating the organization’s vision and direction toward transparent and accountable operations. Most importantly, it highlights the company’s strong focus on social and environmental aspects, making them even more visible and tangible.
“Sustainability is not a cost, but a long-term business opportunity. Starting early gives you the advantage!”
As an environmental and sustainability consultant, FDI Group emphasizes that modern business practices can no longer overlook ESG considerations and environmental impact management. This is particularly critical in the jewelry, precious metals, and manufacturing industries, which are increasingly facing expectations from consumers, investors, and business partners who demand “transparency and accountability.
Adopting the RJC standard is only one of the key tools that demonstrates an organization’s genuine commitment to sustainable business practices. However, in order to achieve truly tangible results, we recommend that entrepreneurs
Plan environmental management in a systematic way.
Build a corporate culture of sustainability.
Because “sustainability” is not a financial cost but a long-term investment that creates competitive advantages, builds trust, and enhances your organization’s reputation in the eyes of the global market.
If you are looking for a trusted advisor — an expert who truly understands environmental matters and is ready to support you from carbon footprint assessments, data collection, internal training, through to long-term planning — you can consult with us as well.
FDI Group stands by your business every step of the way towards sustainable growth.
