Sri Lanka apparel exporter cuts chemical use, costs

Apr 26, 2010 (LBO) - Brandix, one of Sri Lanka's top apparel exporters, said it aims to cut chemical use by about a quarter and reduce costs through a deal with a German supplier that will also reduce pollution. Brandix Group said in a statement the deal to trial the 'Chemical Leasing' (ChL) concept methodology will promote more efficient and sustainable management of chemicals in manufacturing processes.

The 'Chemical Leasing' concept is to be adopted in use of chemicals in the lubrication of thread, dyeing, effluent treatment and water treatment at the group's American & Efird (A&E) thread manufacturing company.

Iresha Somarathna, Head of Environmental and Energy Management at Brandix, said it could result in a reduction in chemical consumption of between 20 and 30 per cent, lowering production costs and benefiting the environment.

"Traditionally, chemicals are sold to customers, who become owners of the substances and therefore responsible for their use and disposal. Their suppliers have a clear economic interest in increasing the amount of chemicals sold," he said.

"Under the chemical leasing business model, the customer pays for the benefits obtained from the chemical, not for the subst