We are pleased to introduce the Air Emissions Module — a practical, data-driven tool aligned with our Air Emissions Guidelines. This module helps brands and suppliers across the textile, leather, and footwear value chain measure, monitor, and reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
Built on the Potential to Emit (PTE) methodology for VOCs and Scope 1 and 2 GHG tracking, the module transforms existing chemical inventory and operational data into actionable insights, supporting performance benchmarking, targeted improvement, and sustainable chemical management.
Benefits for brands
With the Air Emissions Module, brands can:
- Categorise suppliers by performance level using PTE-VOC data.
- Identify and prioritise the highest VOC-emitting chemicals for phase-out.
- Access comparable Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions data to inform engagement strategies.
- Track progress against brand expectations or industry frameworks such as the UN Fashion Charter for Climate Action (2021).
Benefits for suppliers
We’ve designed the module to be straightforward and cost-effective, enabling suppliers to:
- Calculate PTE VOC and GHG emissions using existing data, without costly testing.
- Focus on improvement actions such as substituting high VOC-emitting chemicals.
- Set baselines and track progress against the set target.
What to Do Next
To start using the Air Emissions Module in line with the ZDHC Guidelines and Implementation Approach:
- Review the Guidelines – Familiarise yourself with the Air Emissions Guidelines chapter in the Suppliers Roadmap to Zero Programme to understand scope, methodology, and timelines.
- Prepare Your Data – Gather your chemical inventory (with complete SDS details) and energy consumption and refill values for refrigerants and fire extinguishers gases used figures for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.
- Input into the Module – Enter your inventory and energy data to calculate VOC PTE values and total GHG emissions.
- Analyse Your Results – Identify your highest VOC-emitting chemicals and review your overall emissions profile.
- Plan Immediate Actions – Based on your results, begin substituting high-emitting chemicals, optimising processes, and setting reduction targets in alignment with ZDHC performance levels.
Supporting Better Air Emissions Management
The Air Emissions Module moves you from measurement to immediate action, backed by a clear framework and phased adoption timeline. Together, we can improve air quality, strengthen chemical management, and drive measurable emissions reductions across the value chain.
