A ZDHC conference held in Mumbai on December 10 focused on creating awareness and commitment for safer chemical management practices in textile production. Over 200 delegates from local and global brands; textile chemical companies and service providers, came together to share their experiences, and exchange information on sustainable chemical management practices and challenges.
Panel discussions included topics on leveraging sustainability for growth and competitive advantage in the fashion industry and challenges and opportunities in the chemical management landscape.
The Indian apparel industry is at an early stage in terms of sustainability and building a sustainable supply chain. Leading apparel brands in India have realized the need to adopt sustainable chemical practices in the industry and are taking baby steps in this direction. The bulk of the Indian chemical industry is quite aware of chemical restrictions and leading companies are ready to invest in R&D and marketing activities to develop sustainable products, but need support from apparel brands. The Indian consumer is woefully bereft of product safety redressal mechanisms, but the Consumer Protection Act of August 2019 provides a ray of hope. ZDHC will proactively engage Indian apparel brands and support them in their journey for sustainable chemistry.
