ZDHC Launches MRSL V4.0 With Strengthened Chemical Restrictions And Updated PFAS Requirements

From the report

The ZDHC Foundation today launched Version 4.0 of its ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (ZDHC MRSL). This update reflects the latest scientific developments and evolving industry needs.

The ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List provides a harmonized, science-based framework for restricting hazardous substances in chemical formulations used during manufacturing. Unlike traditional Restricted Substances Lists, which focus on finished products, the ZDHC MRSL addresses chemicals at their source, helping to prevent hazardous substances from entering production processes in the first place. ZDHC developed the update through its established MRSL governance process and had the ZDHC MRSL Council independently assess it, drawing on scientific, regulatory, and industry evidence as well as stakeholder review.

Independent governance and MRSL CouncilThe updates in ZDHC MRSL V4.0 build on the ongoing review process led by the ZDHC MRSL Council, an independent group of technical experts representing diverse segments of the textile, apparel, leather and footwear industries, alongside other relevant stakeholders. The Council uses an objective, science-based approach to assess proposed substances and recommend their inclusion in the ZDHC MRSL or MRSL Candidate List. For Version 4.0, this assessment took into account developments in relevant regulatory lists, including Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC), as well as inputs from the ZDHC Chemical Watchlist.