The head of the Ministry of Environmental Protection recently announced that they are consulting with relevant departments, industry associations, and enterprises on the "Guidelines for Pollution Prevention and Control in the Textile Dyeing and Finishing Industry" (Draft for Soliciting Opinions). These guidelines aim to tighten pollution control standards for the textile dyeing and finishing sector, aligning with technical recommendations.
China's textile industry is a crucial pillar of the national economy, known for its comprehensive industrial chain and wide range of products. It plays a vital role in both domestic consumption and international trade, holding a competitive edge globally. The industry is responsible for a significant portion of global fiber production, including cotton yarn, wool, silk, and chemical fibers.
Despite its economic importance, the textile dyeing and finishing process generates a large volume of wastewater, posing serious environmental challenges. In 2010, the industry contributed 11.6% of total industrial wastewater discharge and 10.2% of chemical oxygen demand emissions—ranking third among all industries. Dyeing and finishing, as a critical stage in the textile supply chain, is not only technologically advanced but also the most polluting link, producing about 80% of the industry’s wastewater.
The sector is dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with only 0.4% of firms classified as large. Most of these companies are located in eastern coastal regions, where water resources are abundant and economies are developed. However, as environmental regulations become stricter, many companies have relocated to less developed areas in central and western China, leading to the spread of pollution.
Although China produces 57% of the world’s textile output, its technology and equipment levels remain relatively low compared to global leaders. Many SMEs lack automation and digital management systems, limiting their efficiency and environmental performance.
In response, the Ministry of Environmental Protection revised the "Emission Standard for Water Pollutants in the Textile Dyeing and Finishing Industry" (GB4287-2012), which was implemented in 2013. This revision aimed to enhance pollution control, support sustainable development, and guide the industry toward cleaner production technologies.
Some provinces, such as Jiangsu, have even established stricter local standards than the national ones. For example, Jiangsu’s DB32/670-2004 sets higher limits for water pollutants, reflecting regional efforts to address environmental concerns.
At the “China Color Cotton 2014 Ecological Forum,†Academician Yu Shuxun emphasized the importance of using eco-friendly materials to reduce pollution. He highlighted the benefits of colored cotton, which requires fewer processing steps and eliminates the need for bleaching and dyeing, thereby reducing water pollution and chemical use.
Currently, China Color Cotton Group produces 95% of the country’s colored cotton and 60% of the world’s supply. The market for baby clothing made from colored cotton has been growing at over 30% annually, showing strong consumer interest in sustainable alternatives.
By promoting low-pollution technologies and sustainable practices, the textile dyeing and finishing industry can move toward more efficient, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly operations, ensuring long-term growth while protecting natural resources.
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