If you have a valid certification from a recognised scheme, you can benefit from a reduced review process for your ZDHC Supplier to Zero Level 2 certification. This article explains the specific process and requirements for all recognised certification schemes.

Recognised Certification Schemes

ZDHC currently recognises the following certification schemes for reduced review processes:

• OEKO-TEX® STeP - Sustainable Textile Production certification
• bluesign® - Comprehensive textile sustainability system
• 4s CHEM - Chemical management protocol within the 4sustainability® framework by Process Factory

Process Overview

The reduced review process follows these main steps:

1. Start Your Application

• • Log into your Supplier Platform account
  • Navigate to Level 2 certification
  • Begin the questionnaire
  • Indicate that you have a valid certificate from a recognised scheme

2. Submit and Pay

• • Complete the required information
  • Submit your application
  • Pay the ZDHC application fee (voucher codes may be applicable)

3. Direct ZDHC Review

• • Unlike standard Level 2 applications, you do NOT need to find a third-party reviewer
  • The ZDHC team will directly review your submitted documentation
  • Once approved, your certificate will be granted

Required Documentation by Certification Scheme

For OEKO-TEX® STeP Certification

1. Valid OEKO-TEX® STeP Certificate

• • Must be current and not expired
  • This is the primary basis for your reduced review

2. OEKO-TEX® STeP Report

• • The complete report associated with your certificate

For bluesign® Certification

1. Valid bluesign® Confirmation Letter

• • Must be current and not expired
  • Official confirmation letter from bluesign® technologies

For 4s CHEM Certification

1. 4sustainability®: 4s Abstract Report CHEM

• • Must be current and valid
  • Shows implementation level achieved

2. 4s Action Plan CHEM

• • Current action plan document
  • Demonstrates ongoing commitment to chemical management

Additional Requirements for All Schemes

3. Discharge Information

• • Answer specific questions about:
    • Discharge volume
    • Discharge type

4. ZDHC ClearStream Reports (if applicable)

• • Two reports required based on your discharge answers
  • Must not be older than 12 months

5. Performance InCheck Reports (if applicable)

• • Three reports required depending on facility activities
  • Must not be older than 6 months

Visibility and Recognition

Once approved:

• Your certification will be displayed on the ZDHC Gateway
• Connected brands will have visibility of your certification status
• Your achievement demonstrates commitment to sustainable chemical management

Key Differences from Standard Level 2 Process

• No third-party reviewer selection required
• Direct review by ZDHC team
• Streamlined documentation requirements
• Faster overall process

For more information about the standard Level 2 certification process, please see our article on What should I do after submitting my Level 2 application?