February 23, 2017 Bluesign Releases Supply Chain Detox Tool: Bluefinder 2.0
Since November, chemical management within the outdoor industry has become a little bit easier (or less complicated). Bluesign’s patented platform Bluefinder has now been released, 14 years after the first version. The company claims that it is now possible for a brand to detox their supply chain, and still choose all possible colors and common finishes, including more than 60 alternatives to PFCs. Additionally, a recommendation of the various possible end uses is given for every single chemical product. The chemicals that are in the Bluesign Bluefinder originate from the most sustainably acting chemical companies around the world. To get a chemical certified, a chemical company has to undergo an audit followed by a corrective action plan to fulfill the Bluesign criteria for production sites. The certification of a chemical product is only possible after implementing all of the necessary steps required to fulfill the criteria.
Realizing a goal
The new Bluefinder was the last of many important milestones for Peter Waeber, who founded Bluesign in 2000. At the end of 2016 he retired from the company.
“When we started with the idea to make a difference in producing textiles and accessories, we were too early and not many people understood what our goal was. It took a long time to convince brands, manufacturers and chemical companies around the world to join a company like ours, with ethical goals, and to be active and invest time and money for a better product. A special challenge was to differentiate us from all of the “pseudo green washing initiatives” that popped up everywhere.”
“But today when going into a store, I enjoy seeing the products that are produced in a better way, and looking back at our story and all the efforts, it makes me happy,” says Peter Waeber.
Passing the torch
The new CEO at Bluesign is Jill Dumain, who was previously Director of Environmental Strategy at Patagonia in Ventura, California and also member of the Bluesign Technologies’ Advisory Board.
“Bluesign Technologies’ passion for creating innovative textile processes to reduce environmental impact is a perfect synergy with my experience and passion. This is a terrific opportunity that any leader would welcome. I am also thankful and indebted to Patagonia for providing me the incredible years there and the foundation for allowing me to take this next step,” says
Jill Dumain.