China Tightens the Rules on Textile Factory Wastewater

Dyeing and finishing fabric uses large amounts of water, and the waste water can carry dyes and chemicals into rivers. China, the world's largest textile producer, has set tougher national limits on how clean that water must be before it is released.

In simple terms:

• A new national standard sets tougher limits on pollution in textile wastewater
• It applies to mills, dye houses and finishing units working with cotton, wool, silk, linen and synthetics
• New or upgraded factories must comply straight away; older ones get time to catch up
• Suppliers may need to invest in cleaner water treatment, which could affect prices

Every colour in your wardrobe once passed through water. When you can, choose naturally dyed textiles and ask brands how their fabrics are coloured.