Innovation takes the pain out of VOC controls for the footwear industry

The UK's hard-pressed footwear manufacturers reacted with alarm four years ago when they were told that they would have to reduce their emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Incineration appeared to be the only, and expensive, means of complying. But after being given an extra two years and greater flexibility by the regulators, the industry is now confident that a switch from solvent-borne to water-based adhesives and improved housekeeping will help it virtually to eliminate its VOC emissions - and bring it competitive advantage in the process.