The Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Foundation has announced the release of its ZDHC Dissolved Pulp Guidelines V1.0 and ZDHC Standard Industry Approach Implementation Guide V1.0. These guidelines are a significant step towards reducing environmental impact in wood-based dissolved pulp manufacturing, a key process in producing man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF).
Dissolved pulp serves as the essential raw material for MMCF, commonly used in textiles and other industries. The newly published guidelines target the responsible use and discharge of chemicals within the dissolved pulp supply chain, to enhance transparency and encourage environmentally conscious practices. Covering the entire supply chain, from wood sourcing to production, the guidelines establish stringent requirements for chemical recovery processes, wastewater management, and air emissions in wood-based dissolved pulp facilities.
The guidelines outline key expectations for chemical recovery, which minimizes hazardous discharge by recycling and reusing chemicals within production cycles. Additionally, detailed requirements for wastewater quality address pollutants, ensuring that facilities comply with strict discharge limits to protect surrounding ecosystems. In doing so, the guidelines aim to set a new industry standard for sustainable dissolved pulp production.
ZDHC encourages brands, suppliers, and dissolved pulp manufacturers to implement the guidelines and share them across their networks. By following these recommendations, stakeholders can work together to foster sustainable practices and support a shift toward greener production processes. Brands and suppliers are expected to promote the guidelines within their supply chains, while dissolved pulp manufacturers are urged to adopt the outlined best practices and meet the established requirements.
Download the guidelines: https://downloads.roadmaptozero.com/output/ZDHC-Dissolved-Pulp-Guidelines-V1.0