The Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) group has released a new Chemical Management System (CMS) guidance manual aimed at helping textile factories, brands, retailers and suppliers develop an in-house CMS. ZDHC feels a sound chemical management system is not only important for worker safety and to reduce environmental impacts on the community and broader environment but is a cornerstone for ensuring continuous improvement and harmonisation towards the group's zero discharge goal.
The guidance manual creates a comprehensive and pragmatic process for managing hazardous chemicals that allows an entry point for different roles in the supply chain. The manual is structured into various sections. The ‘planning’ stage involves committing to CMS as well as assessment and prioritisation. This includes an environmental audit. The ‘do’ phase involves chemicals management, the ‘check’ phase involves monitoring and the ‘final act’ stage entails management review.
In 2011, a group of major apparel and footwear brands and retailers made a shared commitment to help lead the industry towards zero discharge of hazardous chemicals by 2020. Members of the ZDHC group include Adidas, Benetton, Burberry, Esprit, Gap, H&M, Inditex, Levi Strauss, Nike and Puma and a diverse group of stakeholders.
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