The Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Foundation, a global chemical management group, has released the Recycled Polyester Guidelines V1.0 and Industry Standard Implementation Approach V1.0 [1] to address sustainable chemical management in recycled polyester production. These guidelines provide comprehensive requirements for input, process, and output management, covering both bottle-to-textile and textile-to-textile recycling processes.
The guidelines emphasize safe chemical use, recovery, storage, worker safety and minimizing environmental emissions from wastewater, sludge, and air. They are designed to support the fashion industry in adopting sustainable practices and reducing its environmental impact.
The Recycled Polyester Guidelines V1.0 focus on three key areas: input management, process management, and output management. Input management outlines standards for the quality of bottle and textile feedstock and the chemicals used during recycling. Process management highlights best practices for chemical recovery, safe storage, and handling to protect workers. Output management defines methods to minimize wastewater, sludge, and air emissions during recycled polyester fiber production.
The Industry Standard Implementation Approach V1.0 provides a framework for brands, suppliers, and solution providers to implement these guidelines. Brands are encouraged to share the guidelines with their suppliers and incorporate them into their supply chain strategies. Suppliers are urged to study the requirements and implement relevant practices while solution providers are advised to evaluate and adopt the testing methods and limits outlined in the document.
The ZDHC Foundation’s guidelines aim to foster greater accountability and transparency in recycled polyester production, contributing to the global movement toward a more sustainable textile industry. By promoting safe chemical management and reducing environmental emissions, these guidelines help pave the way for a more sustainable future in fashion.
The ZDHC Foundation is a non-governmental environmental organization. It runs a three-step certification scheme as part of its efforts to raise environmental standards in the fashion, textiles, and leather industries. It certifies products that contain no hazardous chemicals. It has the world’s largest database enabling safer choices of chemical products available to the textile, apparel, and footwear industry.
Sources:
[1] Recycled Polyester Guidelines V1.0 and Industry Standard Implementation Approach V1.0 https://www.roadmaptozero.com/post/recycled-polyester-guidelines-v1-0-and-industry-standard-implementation-approach-v1-0
