ZDHC MRSL 2.0 Level 1 Conformance Certification

On 27 November, 2019, version 2.0 of the ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (ZDHC MRSL) was released. This updated version will contribute significantly to reducing the use of harmful chemicals in apparel and footwear. A simple and effective monitoring solution for the listed chemicals helps the stakeholders to achieve sustainable goal.

In 2011, six textile brands joined to form the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Programme with a mission of positive change in the discharge of hazardous chemicals across the textile and footwear lifecycle. There are now over 150 contributors to the ZDHC program including signature brands and those in the chemical, textile & footwear industries, and service providers. Intertek supports the ZDHC Wastewater Guidelines through our vast network of labs which are strategically located throughout Asia and Europe in key supplier/production markets.

The ZDHC MRSL is a list of chemical substances. These substances are banned from intentional use in facilities processing textile materials, leather, rubber, foam, adhesives and trim parts in textiles, apparel, and footwear. The ZDHC MRSL goes beyond the traditional approaches to chemical restrictions, which only apply to finished products (Product Restricted Substances List - PRSL). This approach helps to protect consumers while minimizing the possible impact of banned hazardous chemicals on production workers, local communities, and the environment.

From chemical agent manufacturers and factories/suppliers to brands, ZDHC MRSL affects every aspect of the supply chain.

Chemical Approval Process

Starting from March 2020, all certification organizations should approve the formulators products certified by them in ZDHC Gateway directly. The approval process is as below:

1. Chemical formulation registered and published
2. Visible in InCheck report as “Registered”
3. Visible to Brands and Suppliers as “Registered”
4. Certification Bodies verified the status to “Conformant”

 

Intertek, as a third-party certifier, is recognized by ZDHC to provide testing solutions implemented in accordance with the MRSL Compliance Guidelines, from March 2020. We can directly verify the validity of uploaded certificates on the ZDHC Chemical Gateway, and assist the supply chain in understanding and implementing the transition of ZDHC MRSL Chemical Module from 1.0 to 2.0.