ZERO DISCHARGE OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

The ZERO DISCHARGE OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS (ZDHC) project was born in 2011 from an agreement signed by six important fashion groups from various sectors (footwear, leather, textiles / clothing) to reach the ambitious goal of eliminating the discharge of harmful chemicals by 2020. The global approach designed for the implementation of this program is based on various aspects:

• eliminate or replace dangerous chemical substances in products and in their manufacture; apply a transparent screening process to promote and support safer chemistry;
• implement common tools, production procedures and staff training for a more eco-compatible management of chemistry;
• collaboration and exchange of information between all stakeholders to promote the use of safer chemicals and ensure transparency in their use;

Today the ZDHC Foundation counts well 85 contributors, divided into three categories: 23 signatory brands, 47 value chain affiliates (value chain) and 15 associates. Santori Pellami Spa is one of the 47 affiliates of the value chain. To support companies in the elimination of dangerous chemicals, ZDHC has created a list of substances whose manufacture must be eliminated or limited (MRSL acronym for Manufacturing Restricted Substances List) and continuously provides and updates guidelines and protocols on compliance guidelines , quality of waste water, control activities, data dissemination, staff training and job security. The ZDHC foundation oversees the implementation of the ZDHC program and also provides training and educational support to companies in their effort to achieve sustainable chemistry. For example, through its “ZDHC Academy” platform, member companies are offered the opportunity to register for courses of various kinds in the countries in which they are generally produced (Bangladesh, India, Italy, Pakistan, Turkey and Vietnam). ZDHC also participates in and sponsors conferences and initiatives (as happened in concert with UNIC in the latest edition of the Pelle line) on sustainable chemistry and on the spread of a corporate culture based on the sustainability of materials and products.