SAVE Program – In accordance with ZDHC Guidelines

The SAVE Program (Systematic Analysis Valuable to Environment) has been developed in response to a shift in using Safe and eco-friendly colorant and Chemicals in the textile industry due to toxic and allergic reactions. The SAVE Program is based on a comprehensive management system approach and provides a framework for manufacturers to assist them to ensure that Colorant and Chemicals are free of harmful substances in accordance with ZDHC MRSL v 3.1, ZDHC Verified InCheck-Level 1 v 1.0 and toxicological, ecotoxicological and hazard information. Also, as per ECHA and ZDHC MRSL guidelines the hazardous and restricted chemical inputs shall be identified and approved for GRS (Global Recycling Standard) applied products.

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SAVE Program – In accordance with ZDHC Guidelines

About the program

Different grades will be given depending upon the level of competency. Grading system shall provide brands with a harmonized approach to look at certification and value chain. The higher the grades, the more confidence brands have in certified products.

Level 2: review of MSDS and analytical Test Reports relevant to ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) MRSL v 3.1 and Fulfilment of Level 1 requirements and onsite assessment of management systems (environmental management system (EMS), occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS), raw material management system, quality management system (QMS), chemical management system (CMS) and wastewater and solid waste management system along with review of Chemical supplier’s Product Stewardship practices conformance to level 2.

Level 3: fulfilment of all requirements of Level 1, Level 2, onsite verification of chemical hazard assessment (CHA) capability of formulators related Toxicological, Ecotoxicological and hazard information and SDS review conforms to Level 3.

The ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List

How you benefit

Involves 3rd party audit/verification of product as per below mentioned criteria:

The evaluation process supports ZDHC’s goal of promoting the reduction of hazardous chemical use and improving chemical safety at the source.

We conduct rigorous checks on the following items: Based on the latest ZDHC MRSL candidate list and archive list, we proactively identify potential risks and future compliance obligations, helping facilities stay ahead of regulatory and ZDHC program updates.

Strengthen and ensure responsible chemical decision-making throughout the entire value chain.

We support complete traceability from raw materials to finished chemical products through the following evaluations: Supplier documentation and management records, transparency of raw material origins, and integrity of digital data via platforms such as the ZDHC Gateway. Traceability enhances brand credibility and strengthens responsible sourcing.

We support facilities in achieving measurable reductions in pollutant emissions and operational risks.

Evaluate facility management systems to ensure robust and sustainable operations: raw material management, quality management system (QMS), chemical substance management system (CMS)

We provide hazard class assessments based on the following criteria: Inherent chemical hazards, MRSL compliance, and acute and chronic environmental impacts. This aligns with ZDHC’s mission to eliminate hazardous substances and guide manufacturers toward safer alternatives.

Manufacturers and chemical suppliers ensure they understand key safety parameters in accordance with the following requirements: toxicity profiles (acute toxicity, sensitization, carcinogenicity), safe handling, and emergency response plans. This awareness supports responsible chemical use and minimizes risks throughout the supply chain.

Verified InCheck Level 1

The SAVE Program for chemical inputs, which has been designed in accordance with the Verified InCheck Level 1 guidelines to create credibility for inventory data uploaded by supplier for Performance InCheck Report. The SAVE program manual, developed by CU Inspections & Certifications Pvt. Ltd., aims to align with the Verified InCheck Level 1 guidelines and support sustainability initiatives.

Performance InCheck Guidelines

Third party assuarance

How you benefit

As a certified ZDHC Compliance verifier, we support the global supply chain in achieving safer, more transparent, and environmentally responsible chemical management. Our services are designed to help manufacturers, chemical formulators, and brands comply with the ZDHC Restricted Substances List (MRSL), wastewater treatment, and environmental requirements, guiding the industry toward Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC).

To validate sustainable manufacturing practices, we conduct on-site visits as a “spot-Check” to assess various aspects of the supplier’s operations. These include Verification of Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Inventory, purchase, and production record
Helpful in demonstrating sustainability of product, process, efficiency independently in the marketplace & building confidence
Sustainable development practices help businesses grow in ways that adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, strict country regulations, consumers demanding safe end-products
For nearly 100 years, Control Union has designed & supported the customs that meet Customer’s stringent requirements. Our network offices in 70+ countries will be advantageous in making certification efficacious & cost friendly

Certification Step

Control Union Certifications aims to provide assurance and confidence to all stakeholders that products, processes, services, or management systems meet the requirements of the applicable certification standards through certification. Therefore, the certification process is conducted based on accredited procedures covering the entire process from application to certificate issuance.

Certification Process

Contact us

For inquiries regarding authentication, please use the “Contact Us” page. Feel free to reach out.

Control Union Japan Contact form

GRS – Global Recycled Standard

The GRS is an international, voluntary, full product standard that sets requirements for third-party certification of recycled content, chain of custody, social and environmental practices and chemical restrictions. Control Union Certifications BV is accredited by SLAB for this scheme under registration nr. CP 004-01. CU Inspections & Certifications India Pvt Ltd is accredited by IOAS for the scope of product certification. Contract Number: 81.

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GOTS Scope4 – Global Organic Textile Standard Scope 4 (Letter Of Approval)

The aim of the Global Organic Textile Standard(GOTS) is to define requirements to ensure organic status of textiles. The approach is to define criteria for low impact & low residual natural and synthetic chemical inputs accepted by standard. Also, chemical manufacture/+ formulators sites are audited for Product stewardship, Environmental, Occupational and health and safety and wastewater practices.

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