Hidden chemicals in clothes: why the EU and global policy need digital product transparency

A recent Greenpeace investigation (https://www.greenpeace.org/static/planet4-eu-unit-stateless/2025/11/3ad070d9-20251114_shameonyoushein.pdf) tested 56 garments purchased from Shein in eight countries and found that 18 items contained hazardous chemicals exceeding EU limits under the REACH Regulation. Some substances were reportedly detected at up to 3,300 times above EU limits.

Among the chemicals identified were PFAS (“forever chemicals”), phthalates, heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, and formaldehyde — substances linked to serious health risks, including reproductive harm, immune system damage, and cancer.

This case highlights a systemic challenge: there remains too little transparency regarding chemicals used in products and across global supply chains.

As the EU advances with the REACH revision and the implementation of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), including Digital Product Passports, it is crucial that these tools deliver clear information on chemicals in materials and products throughout their entire life cycle.

At the global level, similar initiatives are emerging. UNEP is exploring Digital Product Information Systems (DPIS) to improve transparency of sustainability information in products. UNECE is advancing digital traceability and product information within supply chains, while ISO standardization processes are developing methodologies for chemical footprinting and information systems.

These discussions are also very important for ongoing negotiations on a global plastics treaty. Fast fashion is part of the plastics problem. Many textiles today are synthetic materials made from plastics — such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and elastane — meaning that the fast-fashion sector is closely linked to the global plastics economy. Improving transparency and sharing information across value chains will therefore be crucial to tackle hazardous chemicals in plastic-based textiles and products.

Without reliable information on chemicals in products, regulators cannot enforce regulations, companies cannot manage risks, and consumers cannot make informed decisions.

If we can track packages worldwide in real time, we should also be able to monitor hazardous chemicals in the products we wear.