ZDHC Committed Community Announcement September 2024

We warmly welcome 2 new Signatories!

As of September 2024, we warmly welcome 2 new ZDHC Signatories to the ZDHC Committed Community! We’ve asked each of them to tell us a little bit about their organisation, and why they are joining ZDHC.

We are pleased to announce that Varner has successfully transitioned from being Signatory Friends of ZDHC Brands to ZDHC Signatory Brands, reflecting their continued commitment to sustainable practices and responsible chemical management in the industry.

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As ZDHC Signatory Brand

Varner is one of the largest fashion retailers in the Nordic countries, with more than 8000 employees and around 1100 stores across 4 countries and an online presence in more than 8 countries.

The Varner private brands consist of Cubus, Dressmann, Bik Bok, Carlings, Volt, Junkyard. Varner also operates franchise stores of Levi’s in the Nordic countries.

Varner’s core values - PASSION, FRIENDSHIP, HAPPINESS, BUSINESS MINDED, MAKE IT EASY AND RESPONSIBLE - shape their company culture and business practices.

The presence of hazardous chemicals is a significant risk throughout the textile supply chain. These chemicals can be difficult to identify within complex formulations used during production. Improper chemical management can lead to environmental pollution and pose health risks to workers.

Joining the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme significantly strengthens Varner’s existing commitment towards responsible chemical management practices, minimising risks to workers and the environment. Outlined below are their key perspectives on how this partnership strengthens their strategy and allows Varner to actively participate in the leading collaborative initiative for chemical management in the fashion industry:

• Opportunity to actively participate in the leading collaborative initiative for chemical management in the fashion industry
• Adopt standards, guidelines, and tools developed by ZDHC
• Raise awareness through training for our team and suppliers
• Actively be part of the solution that the industry needs by contributing to the development work led by ZDHC

"We are excited to reaffirm our commitment to responsible chemical management by stepping up as a ZDHC Signatory Brand of Roadmap to Zero Programme. Over the past two years, we have been a part of this community as a ‘Signatory Friend of ZDHC Brand’. During this time, we have gained valuable knowledge about responsible chemical management practices and the tools offered by ZDHC that facilitate industry-wide implementation.

We are eager to learn more, collaborate and contribute as a part of this active community. We are looking forward to the new opportunities of engagement that signatory membership brings such as Brands to Zero Programme and Resource efficiency module which will help us move forward with our strategic sustainability goals.''

 – Dipankar Bose, Global Environmental Manager, Varner

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As a ZDHC Signatory Supplier

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Tong Hong Tannery Group, founded in 1990, is the largest split leather producer globally, with production bases in Vietnam, China, and Indonesia. Tong Hong Tannery specialises in Suede, Hydro (Water based) PU Coated Leather, Recycle Suede and PU Coated Leather, and other unique fashion items made from split leather. Tong Hong Tannery’s dedication to environmental-friendly practices and high-quality leather production makes them a significant player in the industry.

Joining  ZDHC and receiving from them the latest industry information can help Tong Hong Tannery to adjust their strategies clearly and timely. Using the chemical control tool, can effectively help Tong Hong Tannery to achieve the control of harmful substances from input to output, minimise harm to the environment and ensure safety for workers and consumers.

“We committed to transform the perception of the leather industry. By aiming for a green, clean, and sustainable tannery, we are not only contributing to environmental conservation but also setting an example for others. I’m pleased our vision is the same as ZDHC. Join ZDHC, I am sure we will excel to another level together.”

- Michael Shih President of Tong Hong Tannery Group

We welcome and look forward to working with all of our signatories in creating a world where better chemistry leads to the protection of life, land, air and water a reality! 

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