Input Materials Purchasing
Updated to strengthen guidance on responsible purchasing, supplier risk assessment, and verification of input materials to manage chemical risks and prevent restricted or hazardous substances from entering production. The requirement wording has been updated and a footnote has been added to the guidance for additional clarity. The downloadable "Scope of Input Materials" and "ZDHC MIL Template" files have also been updated by revising the "Material or component description" and "Material or component category" data points, replacing the previous versions of both files.
July 2026
The footnote has been added in the guidance.
Footnote: Input materials are the materials or components purchased by the suppliers and used in the final products or articles
This footnote clarifies the meaning of input materials, ensuring a consistent understanding that they refer to materials or components purchased by suppliers and incorporated into the final products or articles. It removes ambiguity and helps users correctly interpret the scope of the requirements.
Data points in the downloadable file updated
The data points in the downloadable "Scope of Input Materials" file have been updated for "Material or Component Description" and "Material or Component Category" to improve the clarity and consistency of material classification and alignment with the StZ.
Requirement wording has been updated to align with StZ V2
Previous requirements:
1. Record all input materials purchased in the ZDHC MIL and keep it updated
2. Evaluate input materials for restricted substances risks
Updated requirements:
1. Input materials are the materials or components purchased by the suppliers and used in the final products or articles
2. The facility implements a system for managing processed and part-processed input materials and components for restricted substance risk
Data points in the downloadable file “ZDHC MIL Template” were updated
The data points in the downloadable "ZDHC MIL Template" file have been updated for "Material or Component Description" and "Material or Component Category" to improve the clarity and consistency of material classification and alignment with the StZ.
September 2025
Input Materials Purchasing Chapter added providing guidance on responsible purchasing practices and risk checks to manage input materials and controlling restricted substances from entering production.
Input materials purchasing ensures that all materials entering production — whether virgin, recycled, dyed, or chemically processed — are sourced and managed responsibly to prevent the introduction of restricted or hazardous substances.
It places importance on maintaining transparency and control across procurement, with suppliers expected to understand the chemical risks associated with their inputs and keep accurate, regularly updated records of materials purchased.
By assessing suppliers and verifying materials through declarations or certifications, this process promotes safer production practices, regulatory compliance and overall supply chain integrity.