5.2.3 Chemicals management and restricted substances

Chemicals enable colour, softness, protection and performance, but poor selection or control can harm workers, customers, ecosystems and future recycling. Effective management begins with a complete inventory, current safety data, hazard assessment, approved purchasing, correct labelling and storage, trained handling, and monitoring of wastewater, sludge and product residues.

An RSL limits substances in finished products, while an MRSL restricts hazardous chemicals used during manufacturing. Applying both shifts control upstream and reduces reliance on final-product testing. SMEs should request formulation and compliance evidence from suppliers, prefer safer substitutes, document recipes and process changes, and investigate non-conformities. Dyes, coatings and finishes should also be assessed for circularity because they may contaminate recycled feedstock or block a recovery route (Bour et al., 2023; Patra & Pariti, 2022). Clear records support audits, credible claims and Digital Product Passport data.

Figure 5.2.2 Chemicals management in textile manufacturing. A proactive approach helps prevent substances of concern from entering production and monitoring them throughout the process to reduce risks for people, the environment and future material cycles. Credit: FashionKIC, Chemicals Management in Textile Manufacturing Diagram, 2026.

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