Note on Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC)

Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) is a collaborative initiative within the textile, apparel, and
footwear industry aimed at eliminating the use of hazardous chemicals from the supply chain and
achieving safer and more sustainable chemical management practices. The ZDHC program was
established in response to growing concerns about the environmental and human health impacts of
hazardous chemicals used in the production of these products.

Key Points:

1. Mission and Goals: ZDHC's primary mission is to advance towards zero discharge of hazardous
chemicals in the textile, apparel, and footwear value chain. The initiative works to implement
safer chemical practices, improve transparency, and drive innovation in the industry.

2. Collaborative Approach: ZDHC operates as a collaboration among various stakeholders including

brands, retailers, manufacturers, chemical suppliers, and other relevant organizations. By
bringing together diverse actors in the supply chain, ZDHC aims to create a unified approach
towards chemical management.

3. Chemical Management Framework: ZDHC has developed a comprehensive set of tools and
guidelines to support companies in managing chemicals responsibly. This includes the ZDHC
Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) and the ZDHC Wastewater Guidelines. These
resources help companies identify and eliminate or reduce the use of hazardous chemicals in
their processes.

4. Implementation and Adoption: Companies within the industry can adopt the ZDHC guidelines
and work towards achieving ZDHC's goals. This often involves assessing and improving chemical
management practices, collaborating with suppliers to transition to safer alternatives, and
establishing proper wastewater treatment systems to minimize chemical discharge.

5. Transparency and Accountability: ZDHC promotes transparency by encouraging companies to

publicly report their progress in implementing safer chemical practices and achieving zero
discharge goals. This helps build trust with consumers, regulators, and other stakeholders.

6. Continuous Improvement and Innovation: The initiative encourages continuous improvement

by promoting the adoption of best practices, fostering research and development of safer
alternatives, and staying updated with the latest scientific knowledge on chemical hazards and
sustainable practices.

7. Global Impact: ZDHC's efforts have a significant global impact, as the textile, apparel, and
footwear industry spans numerous countries and regions. By driving change in chemical
management practices, ZDHC contributes to the reduction of pollution, the protection of
ecosystems, and the enhancement of worker and consumer safety worldwide.

In summary, the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) initiative plays a vital role in promoting
sustainability and safety within the textile, apparel, and footwear industry. Through collaboration,
knowledge-sharing, and the development of practical tools, ZDHC works towards the ambitious goal of
eliminating hazardous chemicals from the industry's supply chain while fostering innovation and
responsible practices.