DOWNPASS is based on the standards specified in the European Convention for the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes concerning correct animal husbandry and the various quality requirements for feathers and down. The aim is to implement a globally valid and recognized system to ensure that worldwide demand, which reveals rapid expansion in Asian emerging markets, for example, can be met from ethically sound sources.

With the DOWNPASS, both finished products (e.g. down jackets and sleeping bags) and down and feather transport containers (e.g. packed in balls or sacks) can be traced all the way back through the chain of custody. The Downpass unites ethical and quality inspection criteria, whilst documenting the origin (traceability) of feathers and down from waterfowl (ducks and geese) that are used as filling material for clothing, outdoor equipment and bedding. Traceability audits and quality inspections are carried out by recognized, neutral third parties. Assurance must be given that products only contain down and feathers that were not plucked from live animals.

In terms of quality, products that carry the Downpass seal must meet the requirements detailed on the label. The supply chain of every company in the bed-feather and bedding industry is international and individual. The standard also represents the way to the large breeding areas as well as to small farms and collectors.