15 February 2024
Leather Working Group and ZDHC Foundation Announce Collaboration to Advance Sustainable Chemical Management in Leather Manufacturing
In a significant step forward for sustainable leather manufacturing, the Leather Working Group (LWG) and the ZDHC Foundation today announced a landmark collaboration. By connecting the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme and the LWG audit standard, the two organisations aim to streamline sustainable chemical management implementation for leather manufacturers.
The collaboration focuses on harmonising standards between the programmes, specifically on impact areas such as the ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL), wastewater, and air emissions. Implementation of the programmes will also be a core focus of the collaboration, concentrating on the LWG Audit Standard and ZDHC Supplier to Zero and InCheck Solutions.
“Through this powerful synergy with LWG that transcends our industries, we pave the way for a sustainable future,” said Janne Koopmans, Collaborations Director at ZDHC. “When joining hands, we not only lighten the load on manufacturers but also create a seismic shift towards positive change in responsible practices.”
The collaboration aims to ease the burden on leather manufacturers to comply with multiple standards while still upholding responsible chemical management. Key audiences, including brands and industry media, are critical to spread awareness of this harmonised approach.
“We’re thrilled to unite with ZDHC to enhance efficiency and amplify impact,” said Stuart Cranfield, Director of Standards and Assurance, LWG. “Together, we stride towards a more sustainable leather manufacturing industry worldwide.”
This collaboration serves as a model for how industry organisations can work together to drive progress on critical sustainability issues. ZDHC urges other organisations to consider similar partnerships that unite around shared goals while reducing inefficiencies. Together, we can redefine business as usual and prove cooperation paves the path to a responsible, sustainable future.