ZDHC

ZDHC Foundation, or Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals, is a global not-for-profit organization that coordinates collaboration among brands, suppliers, and service providers to reduce and ultimately eliminate hazardous chemicals in textile, leather, and footwear supply chains. Its stated aim is to improve environmental and worker safety by standardizing chemical management practices across the industry.

The organization operates around several core programs and tools. The Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) specifies chemicals and constraints that should not be used in production processes. The MRSL is periodically updated and serves as a common reference for brands, suppliers, and testing laboratories. To facilitate data sharing and compliance, ZDHC runs the Gateway, an online platform where chemical inventories can be uploaded, mapped to the MRSL, and reviewed by brands and auditors.

In addition to the MRSL and Gateway, ZDHC publishes Wastewater Guidelines to establish expectations for effluent treatment and discharge, and provides training resources and practical guidance for chemical management. The Roadmap to Zero outlines phased milestones for progressing toward zero-discharge goals, supported by member brands, suppliers, and laboratories.

Governance is carried out by the ZDHC Foundation with participation from global fashion and footwear brands, manufacturers, chemical suppliers, and service providers. The structure is designed to scale adoption of standardized practices while addressing data confidentiality and supply-chain competitiveness.

Impact and reception: ZDHC has become a widely referenced framework in the apparel and footwear sectors, with many major brands signaling alignment with its MRSL and participation in the Gateway and related programs. The foundation continues to update its standards and expand its reach to suppliers worldwide.