SG 056/25
On February 1, 2025, the Apparel and Footwear International RSL Management (AFIRM) Group released its 2025 restricted substances list (RSL) for the industry.
AFIRM is a globally recognized organization dedicated to supporting sustainable and responsible RSL management throughout the apparel, accessory and footwear supply chains. It provides an essential toolkit for brands, retailers and manufacturers to ensure compliance with restricted substance regulations worldwide.
The AFIRM 2025 RSL (Version 10) provides a comprehensive matrix by material for listed restricted substances, including CAS numbers, restriction limits, test methods and relevant legislative reporting requirements. It also provides information on where these substances are commonly used within the industry, offering the necessary resources to align with global compliance standards. This comprehensive technical guidance supports brands, manufacturers, retailers and suppliers in meeting industry-wide compliance requirements.
Overview of the major changes in AFIRM RSL v10:
- Revised test methods for azo-amine, chlorinated benzenes and toluenes and heavy metals
- Reporting limits updated for bisphenols, total organic fluorine and PFAS
- New category added for cyclosiloxanes, including requirements and recommendations in the testing matrix
- ‘Flame Retardants’ category renamed to ‘Brominated and Organophosphorus Substances’ to reflect the multiple uses of the listed chemicals
- Legal references updated to align with the latest regulations for fluorinated greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting substances
- Existing list expanded with newly added substances for brominated and organophosphorus substances, PFAS, phthalates and UV absorbers
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) appendix and list updated
- New notes and additional information added for clarity
The release of the 2025 RSL underscores AFIRM’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, transparency and industry collaboration. By providing a well-structured and globally aligned resource, AFIRM continues to empower stakeholders in the apparel and footwear industry to make informed decisions that contribute to reducing the use and impact of harmful substances. Stakeholders are encouraged to review and adopt the latest AFIRM RSL to ensure compliance with the most current industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Reference: AFIRM RSL v10 2025
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