Bluesign Launches Phase Out Program For Critical Solvents
In a bid to enhance environmental performance and ensure consumer safety, Bluesign has launched a comprehensive phase out program for critical solvents.
“Since its inception in September 2021, this initiative has gained traction among our system partner manufacturers, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of hazardous substances,” the company said.
Substances such as Dimethylformamide or Toluene pose significant risks to human health, particularly in industries like textile manufacturing, footwear production, and accessory manufacturing.
To address these concerns, Bluesign’s CMR solvent management concept, advocates for the use of less hazardous alternatives and emphasises non-regrettable substitution with water-based processes emerging as a viable solution.
“As of January 1, 2022, manufacturers failing to comply with the CMR solvent management concept are barred from joining the Bluesign System, underscoring our commitment to sustainability standards,” the Swiss company added.
“We are pleased to report that a considerable number of its system partner manufacturers have already implemented the necessary measures well ahead of the previously stated 2024 deadline,” Bluesign stated.
Bluesign has outlined important deadlines regarding certification of Bluesign Approved articles, focusing on compliance with CMR solvent management principles.
January 1, 2024 is for certificates granted only for articles produced at production sites which comply with the CMR solvent management concept or for which an improvement plan exists.
January 1, 2027 is for certificates granted only for articles which are produced at production sites which comply with the CMR solvent management concept.
For companies that have not changed to less hazardous solvent alternatives or water-based processes Bluesign recommends installing an off-gas abatement system with efficiency for CMR solvents of at least 95 percent or a TOC concentration in the off-gas of less than 10 mg/m³.
Alternatively Bluesign advised to install a recycling system with an efficiency for CMR solvents of 95 percent or more.
