ZDHC

The ZDHC standard refers to the set of guidelines and requirements developed by the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) initiative. These standards are designed to promote responsible chemical management practices in the textile, apparel, and footwear industry.

The ZDHC standard includes the following key components:

ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (ZDHC MRSL): This is a list of substances that are prohibited or restricted in textile and footwear manufacturing processes. It helps brands and suppliers identify and eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals in their production processes.

ZDHC Gateway: It is an online platform that enables suppliers to assess and improve their chemical management systems. It provides tools and guidance to help suppliers measure their progress in implementing sustainable chemical management practices.

ZDHC Chemical Module: This module provides a standardized approach to assess the environmental and human health impact of chemicals used in textile and footwear manufacturing. It helps companies identify and prioritize chemicals for substitution with safer alternatives.

Wastewater Guidelines: The ZDHC standard includes guidelines for managing wastewater from textile and footwear manufacturing processes. It provides recommendations for monitoring, treatment, and responsible disposal of wastewater to prevent the release of hazardous substances into the environment.

Training and Capacity Building: The ZDHC initiative offers training programs and capacity-building activities to help brands, suppliers, and other stakeholders understand and implement the ZDHC standard effectively. These initiatives aim to promote knowledge sharing and best practices within the industry.

The ZDHC standard is continually updated and refined to align with the latest scientific research, regulatory requirements, and industry developments. Its goal is to create a common framework for responsible chemical management and drive the industry towards zero discharge of hazardous chemicals throughout the supply chain.