Contributor, The Textile Industry and the Environment, UNEP

18 SUMMARY
Careful handling and use of processing chemicals can only be achieved if proper workplace procedures
are introduced and shop-floorpersonnel is adequately trained. There are a number ofspecialized
organizations, both intergovernmental and industry-based, that can advise companies on the
necessary procedures. Information on chemical hazards can also usually be obtained from such
organizations. Many chemical companies now supply alternative reagents and dyes that are safer
to use and less polluting to the environment. '
Even with more efficient processes and better handling there will generally remain some effluent,
and some waste residues. Adequate treatment processes exist for most common pollutants, with only
colour removal sometimes presenting any real difficulty. Because effective control offugitive emissions
remains an expensive operation, air pollution contra! is preferably achieved through selection
ofless volatilelmishing chemicals and completely enclosedprocesses. Disposal ofchemical residues
and empty containers is a further consideration which, while seemingly of minor importance, can
have serious impacts if carelessly carried out. Safe disposal depends on adequate pre-treatment of
residues, and ifpossible the use ofspecial industrial landfills for the stabilized residues.
The range of potential environmental impacts and issues is now so large that addressing them one
at a time is no longer effective. Textile companies need to adopt, at a high level, an integrated environmental
management plan that is clearly explained to employees. Environmental and safety (raining
should be provided to allow all employees to conlribute to environmental programmes. Regular
environmental audits and reporting should be carried out by management itself with prompt action
taken to address any problems (hat arise. The company should also participate in industry-wide initiatives
to raise environmental awareness, and join cooperative action on research, training, information
exchange and communication. The use ofindustry guidelines and self-regulatory procedures
can do much to encourage beller performance across the entire textile sector, and may reduce somewhat
the need for regulatory action.
Within the government a clear policy fram ework for environmental control should be developed. This
should include an explicit statement of what environmental standards apply to companies, covering
all environmental and safety issues. Government policy and regulations should wherever possible
encourage a preventive cleaner production approach as a complement to the traditional discharge
and emission standards, and also consider incorporating monitoring and reporting requirements as
a part of such systems.