Retail giant H&M to ban perfluorinated compounds

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN: Swedish fashion retailer H&M has put a global ban on perfluorinated compounds (PFC) as part of its eco-friendly initiative. The ban will be effective from 1 January 2013, all orders placed after this date will be produced without PFC. The compound is used to achieve water repellent function mainly on outer wear garments; however they are harmful for the environment, for reproduction and for aquatic organisms.

Since 1995, H&M has been working actively to reduce the use and impact of hazardous chemicals. H&M teamed up with other fashion and sport brands during 2011 to help lead the industry to zero discharge of hazardous chemicals. As a brand, H&M has since some time already worked on restricting and phasing out perfluorinated substances, and a full ban on this has been an important part of their individual action plan.

H&M is also a part of AFIRM, an international working team of leading companies within the textile and footwear industries, educating the suppliers to achieve good chemical management. The group’s common aim is to reduce the use and impact of harmful substances in the apparel and footwear supply chain.

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