VF Corporation has launched a method to screen for hazardous trace chemicals in textile formulations before they enter the mill. The Chem-IQ process can pinpoint minute traces of more than 400 hazardous substances before they are used in production. It assigns formulations a simple green, yellow, orange or red environmental rating at the end of a simple five step screening process.
Each sample is given a rating: preferred (green), allowed (yellow), due diligence required (orange) and prohibited (red). The factory then receives a report on all chemical formulations submitted, and is required to phase out use of any red rated chemicals and work towards making sure the inventory is loaded with green rated chemistry. The idea is a factory meeting the Chem-IQ requirements has a very low risk of product failures, wastewater pollution and worker safety issues.
The method can help mills filter out potentially hazardous formulations in the global textile supply chain and continuously improve their environmental profile. Although the Chem-IQ program currently relates only to the VF Corp supply chain, the company wants the new process to be applied to the wider textile community.
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