Do you know about REACH ?

[Asif Shah]

REACH is a new EU law which plans on banning certain chemicals that can be harmful to both humans and the environment.

This legislation is in force now and there is a list of substances(candidate list) which are under consideration.

Why am I telling you this ?

As consumers the REACH legislation has empowered us.

if you ask a retailer whether his product contains any harmful chemicals, he has to give you a written response within 45 days by law and if he doesnt he can be prosecuted.

By the way this does not only apply to textiles but all products.

So next time you go shopping why not take a long a few drafted letters with you.

The point I am trying to make though is that this can have a major impact on sustainability as it is legislation and not just voluntary and it is an opportunity for consumers to make a real significant change.