Furnishing industry mobilises to phase out chemicals of concern

Australia’s furnishing industry is mobilising to identify and phase out chemicals of concern in textiles, leather, foams, coatings and other materials.

The Australasian Furnishing Association, supported by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE), are embarking on an industry engagement project to identify the chemicals and the opportunity for industry-led action.

AFA CEO Patrizia Torelli said: “Engagement with the sector is key.

“The full scope of the work involves data-gathering undertaking research and the most critical piece is engaging with the industry stakeholders to ensure the sector is heard and identifies its abilities and actions for innovation.”

The project follows the announcement of a new legislative framework for managing industrial chemicals – the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard of IChEMS.

The new standard provided for a registry system for industry to understand and make informed choices about chemicals and how they should be managed.

An IChEMS register will categorise chemicals based on their level of concern to the environment, and be a single consistent source of information.

According to Torelli: “We hope that the work will deliver realistic opportunities to improve chemicals management in the Australian furnishings sector where stakeholders feel supported and are equipped with resourcing.”

The project will also explore the impact of Australia’s waste agenda and circular economy initiatives.

To register interest send your details to [email protected]

Picture: environment.gov.au

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