The next release of the International Material Data System (IMDS), version 15.0, is scheduled for July 5–6, 2025. This upcoming update will introduce several functional enhancements designed to improve regulatory accuracy, data transparency, and environmental reporting.
Together, these changes will impact how suppliers manage SVHC declarations, carbon footprint data, regulatory completeness, and user permissions. The following summary outlines what global IMDS users can expect and how best to prepare.
1. Dynamic SVHC Classification
One of the key updates in IMDS 15.0 is the implementation of dynamic classification for Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs). Rather than applying a static label, the system will begin treating certain substances as SVHCs only when specific regulatory or compositional thresholds are met.
This change will affect:
- MDS tree displays and reports
- Where-Used Analysis results
- SCIP submissions
For instance, if a substance lacks regulatory detail or exceeds defined limits, it may be dynamically flagged as an SVHC. This context-based approach reflects how substances are assessed in real-world regulatory scenarios and will require users to apply more careful data entry and review practices.
2. New Regulatory Requirements for MCCPs
In parallel, IMDS 15.0 will introduce a new regulation type and substance group for medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs). These are commonly used in industrial applications and now require more detailed classification.
Specifically, users will be prompted to complete two mandatory fields in the regulation wizard:
- “The substance contains”, with options such as ≥80% C14–C17 linear chloroalkanes or ≥45% chlorine by weight
- “Hazard statements”, based on Globally Harmonized System (GHS) categories
If either field is incomplete, or if the highest concentration range is selected, the substance will be treated as an SVHC under the new dynamic logic. This addition reinforces the importance of accurate and consistent reporting for regulated substances.
3. “Rest” Values Displayed as Ranges
Another improvement will address how IMDS displays unspecified portions of a material, often referred to as “rest” values. Currently, these are presented as fixed average percentages. Under version 15.0, “rest” values will instead be shown as minimum and maximum ranges, provided that at least one other substance in the same level is defined as a range.
This update will improve:
- The accuracy of material representation
- Search functionality within Where-Used Analysis for defined composition ranges
As a result, users will be able to identify and track substances more effectively, especially when working with variable material inputs.
4. Carbon Footprint Reporting
Perhaps the most significant addition in IMDS 15.0 is the launch of Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) reporting. For the first time, users will be able to enter and manage greenhouse gas emissions data directly within IMDS, structured across two categories:
- Product carbon footprint, entered in the ingredients section, tied to manufacturing sites, and expressed as kg CO₂e per component or per kilogram
- Transport carbon footprint, based on emissions from delivery routes between production and customer sites
To support this functionality, IMDS will also introduce:
- A dedicated PCF contact person role
- Tables for defining and managing production sites and transport routes
- The ability to discontinue and revise PCF entries independently of the full MDS version
- Controlled visibility, where only DQR and PDS values (not actual carbon footprint values) are shown to downstream recipients when the carbon data is associated with MDSs referenced inside accepted or published MDSs.
Carbon data will not be available for references to Published Standard MDSs. Additionally, only once an MDS is accepted will its PCF values be visible to the intended recipient.
5. PCF Email Notifications
To help users stay up to date, IMDS 15.0 will include a new subscription-based feature: “PCF Updates” email notifications. Subscribers will receive a weekly summary of changes to product or transport carbon footprint data in MDSs that have been accepted during the prior week.
These emails will indicate which MDSs were updated, prompting users to access full details through IMDS or IMDS Connect. This enhancement promotes more timely awareness and encourages better coordination between suppliers and customers.
6. Preview of Granular User Privileges
Looking ahead, IMDS 15.0 will also begin the rollout of a more flexible user privilege system. Instead of relying solely on predefined roles like “User” or “Company Administrator,” administrators will have the ability to assign individual privileges or use customizable presets.
Privileges will include functions such as:
- Editing MDS components and materials
- Managing regulatory or PCF data
- Submitting SCIP declarations
This added control will make it easier to align user access with company-specific responsibilities. During the transition, current access rights will remain intact.
7. Mandatory Regulatory Checks
Finally, IMDS 15.0 will introduce new validation checks for regulatory data. When submitting an MDS for sending, proposing, or publishing, the system will display:
- Errors if no regulatory data is present
- Warnings if the available data is incomplete or does not align with the MDS composition
These checks are intended to improve the quality and completeness of submitted information. They will not apply to internal releases or referenced modules and will help prevent issues further downstream in the supply chain.
Next Steps for IMDS Users
With the rollout quickly approaching, now is the time for IMDS users to prepare. Key actions to take include:
- Review MCCP entries and complete the new regulatory fields
- Identify and assign PCF contact persons within your team
- Begin collecting and validating carbon footprint data for key products and transport routes
- Review and adjust user permissions in line with the upcoming privilege structure
- Audit existing MDSs to ensure regulatory completeness under the new validation rules
Final Thoughts
IMDS 15.0 represents a step forward in aligning material data management with global compliance and sustainability goals. From refined SVHC handling to integrated carbon tracking and customizable user access, the platform is becoming more adaptable to the needs of modern supply chains.
By preparing early and understanding what is coming, suppliers can strengthen their compliance posture and maintain strong partnerships with OEMs and regulatory stakeholders.
To explore how Tetra Tech can support your readiness through training and consulting, please visit our IMDS support page or contact us at [email protected].
