MRSL — the foundation for safer chemical management
The Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) is ZDHC's cornerstone contribution to global sustainability—a science-based, unified list that identifies chemical substances banned from intentional use in manufacturing processes.
A proactive approach with the ZDHC MRSL
Preventing pollution at the source
Unlike traditional Restricted Substances Lists (RSLs) that focus on finished products, the ZDHC MRSL targets chemicals at the beginning of the manufacturing process, input.
This preventative approach reduces the risk of harmful substances from entering production, protecting workers, communities and ecosystems.
The ZDHC MRSL promotes proactive chemical management by addressing risks at their source and fostering innovative safer alternatives.This upstream approach is key to allowing conformance and true circularity in manufacturing.
The ZDHC MRSL is a living document
Regularly updated through a rigorous, transparent process involving independent experts, industry stakeholders and scientific advisors. The ZDHC MRSL sets clear maximum concentration limits for restricted chemicals and provides a harmonised benchmark that replaces fragmented company-specific requirements.
Challenges and Reasons to Join
Before the ZDHC MRSL, brands and suppliers faced a patchwork of individual requirements, causing confusion and inefficiency. The ZDHC MRSL unifies the industry around a single, credible benchmark, reducing complexity and cost for all stakeholders.
Increasing global scrutiny on chemical use means greater risk for non-compliance. Adopting the ZDHC MRSL helps companies stay ahead of regulations, manage risks and build trust with customers and investors.
Hazardous chemicals threaten ecosystems, worker safety and community health. The ZDHC MRSL provides a science-based path to eliminate these risks, supporting corporate sustainability goals and positive social impact.
Implementing the ZDHC MRSL drives innovation in safer chemistry, opens markets and creates new business opportunities for forward-thinking brands, suppliers, and chemical companies.
This is how you can engage with ZDHC.
Benefit now
Adopt the ZDHC MRSL
Integrate the ZDHC MRSL into your sourcing, manufacturing and chemical management practices, regardless of your industry.
Register on the ZDHC Gateway
Access and contribute to the world’s largest MRSL-conformant chemicals, tools, and guidance database.
Participate in Programmes
Join our Roadmap to Zero or sector-specific implementation programmes to benchmark and accelerate your progress.
Collaborate and Learn
Attend ZDHC events, training and technical working groups to stay at the forefront of sustainable chemical management.
Water Stewardship
Clean water starts with better chemistry. Every drop protected through safer choices.
Contribute to Updates
Propose new substances or processes for inclusion via our transparent, science-based ZDHC MRSL review process.
