Marking International Day of Zero Waste: Driving Change at Textiles Recycling Expo

BRUSSELS — March 10, 2025 — As the world prepares to recognize the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, 2025, there has never been a more critical time to spotlight the need for sustainable solutions in the textile industry. Jointly led by UNEP and UN-Habitat, this year’s theme: “Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles” marks a historic first, and underscores the urgency of waste reduction and circularity, reinforcing why businesses and policymakers must accelerate their efforts toward a sustainable future.

In alignment with this mission, the Textiles Recycling Expo, taking place June 4-5, in Brussels, Belgium, serves as a vital platform where industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers convene to shape the future of textile recycling and circular economies. Brussels, at the heart of Europe’s sustainability discussions, is the ideal location to drive meaningful change, with key conversations taking place that will influence global policies and industry practices. Tickets are free to attend and available to secure here.

The textile industry remains one of the world’s most waste-intensive sectors, with millions of tonnes of clothing and fabric discarded annually. With the UN-Habitat calling for collective action, businesses that align with zero-waste initiatives are better positioned for resilience and growth in an increasingly sustainability-focused world.

The Textiles Recycling Expo provides an unparalleled opportunity to join the movement, showcasing cutting-edge technologies, pioneering solutions, and regulatory insights that will define the future of textile circularity. Attendees will gain access to influential discussions, expert-led panels, and key networking opportunities that can drive scalable impact in waste reduction.

As we approach the International Day of Zero Waste, organizations, brands and policymakers must take decisive steps toward a zero-waste future. Join us at the Textiles Recycling Expo 2025 to be part of the fundamental conversations shaping sustainable progress towards a circular future.

For more information on the initiative visit: https://unhabitat.org/international-day-of-zero-waste-2025

Visit the Textiles Recycling Expo website for more information on the event and to register: https://events.amiplastics.com/textiles-recycling-expo

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: Textiles Recycling Expo 2025

Wrangler x Accelerating Circularity Jeans Launch At Walmart, Advancing Textile-To-Textile Recycling At Scale

NEW YORK CITY — March 7, 2025 — Following the successful launch of circular products at Target, another milestone in textile-to-textile recycling has landed in the market: the Wrangler x Accelerating Circularity jeans, now available at Walmart. This launch showcases the viability of integrating mechanically recycled post-consumer and post-industrial cotton into mainstream apparel.

As part of Accelerating Circularity’s U.S.-based trials, 23 tons each of post-consumer and post-industrial cotton were successfully recycled, working with key supply chain partners to turn used textiles into new products. The Wrangler x Accelerating Circularity jeans contain 26-percent recycled cotton (50-percent post-consumer, 50-percent post-industrial), alongside virgin cotton and elastane for stretch, setting a new benchmark for post-consumer recycled content in commercially available denim.

This project was made possible through collaboration across the textile supply chain trial members, including collection by Bank & Vogue (post-consumer) and Martex (post-industrial); mechanical recycling by Giotex & Estopas; yarn production by Parkdale; and fabric production by Cone Denim.

Key innovations include:

  • Cross-brand collaboration for standardized yarn and fabric specifications allowed trials to
    meet supply chain minimum order quantities (MOQs), proving commercial viability;
  • Unprecedented level of post-consumer mechanically recycled cotton (in combination
    with post-industrial and virgin cotton) in a mainstream denim product;
  • Proven durability: products passed commercial performance tests benchmarked against
    major brand standards.

“This launch is a proof point that circularity is not just a concept — it’s happening now,” said Karla Magruder, founder of Accelerating Circularity. “Through collaboration across the supply chain, we’ve shown that used textiles can become a viable feedstock for new products at scale.”

With this release, Wrangler joins a growing list of brands bringing circular products to market through Accelerating Circularity’s trials. As the initiative moves forward, the focus remains on scaling impact, including the next major goal: recycling 325 tons of used textiles as part of Accelerating Circularity’s Clinton Global Initiative Commitment to Action.

Brands, retailers, and manufacturers interested in joining the next phase can reach out at
info@acceleratingcircularity.org.

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: Wrangler

Nikwax Unveils Performance PFAS-Free Hydrophobic Down

SEATTLE ⏤ March 10, 2025 ⏤ Nikwax proudly announces the launch of its Direct.Dry Down line — an innovation that redefines waterproof down with unmatched performance and sustainability.

This cutting-edge range of PFAS-free products offers three distinct performance levels, including the industry’s top performer in the shake test, ensuring outdoor brands can choose the right hydrophobic down solution for their needs:

  • Direct.Dry Down 1K: Achieves up to 1,000 minutes of shake time, suitable for both recycled and virgin down, making it versatile for all types of down products.
  • Direct.Dry Down 5K: Delivers exceptional hydrophobic performance with up to 5,000 minutes of shake time on premium virgin duck and goose down.
  • Direct.Dry Down 25K: Sets a new benchmark with a world leading 25,000 minutes of shake time, offering unparalleled protection and performance on premium virgin duck and goose down for the most demanding conditions.

Key features of the Direct.Dry Down range include:

  • Unmatched Water Resistance: Direct.Dry Down 25K withstands rigorous testing, maintaining its loft and breathability even when exposed to water for an astonishing 17 days, ensuring users stay dry, warm, and comfortable in wet environments where standard down fails.
  • Durable Performance: Engineered for longevity, this range is designed to perform exceptionally well with Nikwax aftercare products, extending the life of outdoor gear.
  • Sustainable: The Direct.Dry Down range is PFAS-Free, bluesign® APPROVED and only available on RDS, GTDS certified or recycled down.

Brian Davidson, CEO of Nikwax, stated, “For over a decade, Nikwax has been at the forefront of waterproof down technology, and with the Direct.Dry Down range, we are proud to set a new standard in performance and sustainability. Our commitment to innovation continues to empower brands to create award-winning products that meet the highest industry standards.”

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: Nikwax

 

ANDRITZ Airlay Line For Sustainable Nonwovens Production Starts Up At Carolina Nonwovens


ANDRITZ neXline airlay equipment in operation at Carolina Nonwovens . (Image courtesy of Andritz Nonwovens)

GRAZ, Austria — MARCH 10, 2025 — International technology group ANDRITZ has supplied and commissioned a neXline airlay system at the Carolina Nonwovens plant in Ohio. This marks the first installation of the new generation airlay line in the United States.

The state-of-the-art system processes recycled fibers into nonwovens for automotive and industrial sectors, helping to reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency.

Designed for ease of use and maintenance, ANDRITZ’s advanced equipment maximizes operational efficiency and reliability. With this new investment, Carolina Nonwovens strengthens its ability to produce high-quality nonwovens from industrial and post-consumer waste, in line with its commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.

The company already operates an ANDRITZ airlay line at its plant in North Carolina.

“It was a pleasure to work with the ANDRITZ experts again. Thanks to their support, our team benefited from efficient training, enabling us to significantly enhance our capabilities,” said Ed Hull, COO of Carolina Nonwovens.

Carolina Nonwovens specializes in providing world-class nonwoven solutions using state-of the-art airlay technology and superior raw materials. With deep expertise in fiber processing, the company offers a wide range of products for various markets such as acoustic and thermal insulation for the automotive, construction and appliance industries.

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: Andritz Nonwovens

Jeanologia Empowers The Next Generation Of Textile Leaders At The NexGen Summit

VALENCIA, Spain — March 7, 2025 — In 2025, Jeanologia celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of innovation and leadership in transforming the textile industry. The Spain-based company commemorated this milestone with an event — the NextGen Summit — bringing together for the first time the world’s leading denim manufacturers under one roof. With a significant representation of global production, the summit served as a platform to inspire, motivate, and empower the next generation of leaders from family-owned businesses in the denim industry, equipping them with the necessary tools to tackle future challenges with a sustainable, technological, and collaborative vision.

Held at Jeanologia’s headquarters in Valencia and other key textile industry locations in Spain, the event was a pivotal meeting point where future leaders exchanged ideas and knowledge with brands and industry experts. For the first time, the sector’s leading companies gathered to discuss the industry’s future, addressing key challenges such as sustainability, digitalization and automation.

The NextGen Summit program included diverse formats designed to maximize learning and interaction, featuring inspirational talks where industry leaders shared their experience and vision, with a special focus on generational transition; interactive workshops exploring innovative solutions for industry challenges; and open debates fostering dialogue among key players in the sector.

One of the standout moments of the event was the keynote by Bart Sights, head of Innovation at Levi’s, who inspired attendees with his disruptive vision and industry trajectory. From his early days working alongside his father as a supplier to his current role leading innovation at one of the most influential denim brands, Sights emphasized the importance of bringing bold ideas to the table. His message encouraged participants to embrace change and leverage new technologies to accelerate transformation.

Additionally, a visit to Mango’s headquarters was one of the most emotional and inspiring moments of the program, as it paid tribute to the memory of its founder, Isak Andic. During the visit, Andrés Fernández, head of Sustainability & Sourcing, shared Mango’s vision, objectives, and action plans for sustainability, sparking a highly enriching discussion for both parties.

An inspiring session was also held at another major Spanish retailer, where participants not only gained insight into its strategic approach and vision for the future of the industry but also engaged in an open debate on the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

A collaborative and digital future

Beyond learning, the NextGen Summit has been a catalyst for collaboration, creating a space where the industry can learn, share, and evolve together.

Through this event, young leaders have established lasting relationships and made concrete commitments to advance toward a more responsible and efficient model. The community formed at this summit will continue to stay connected and exchange ideas beyond the event itself, reinforcing Jeanologia’s mission to build a more collaborative and transparent textile ecosystem.

The beginning of a global movement

“The NextGen Summit is just the beginning of a global movement. We have built a community where the next generations openly share challenges and solutions, motivating each other to accelerate change in a disruptive, responsible, and collaborative way. Now, it is up to us to take on the challenge of transforming the industry with a new mindset, new ways of working, and a commitment to a better future,” stated Pepa Silla, who represents the young leadership guiding Jeanologia’s vision toward a more innovative and sustainable model.

Jeanologia is firmly committed to empowering the next generation of leaders, who will play a crucial role in the industry’s transformation. With the NextGen Summit as a starting point, the company plans to continue organizing future editions of this event and positioning it as a benchmark in the transition towards a more digital, automated, and sustainable industry.

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: Jeanologia

ShinWon Corp. Champions Women’s Empowerment In The Workplace With 75 Percent Female Managerial Representation

SEOUL, South Korea — March 7, 2025 — ShinWon Corp., a global apparel manufacturer, in promoting women’s career growth and leadership opportunities, is receiving heightened recognition on this year’s International Women’s Day for its ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive workplace.

With a steadfast belief that “Human resources are a company’s most valuable asset,” ShinWon actively supports workplace improvements and career development for employees. At its headquarters in South Korea, women account for approximately 58 percent of the workforce, with female executives making up 21 percent of leadership positions. Notably, the return-to-work rate after maternity leave stands at around 92 percent, demonstrating ShinWon’s robust support systems that enable women to maintain continuous career growth. The company also operates women’s lounges and nursing rooms, with a second lounge added last year for enhanced convenience. Additionally, ShinWon conducts infant CPR training sessions for working parents and offers daycare subsidies, further reinforcing its commitment to employee well-being.

The company’s dedication to gender inclusion extends across its global operations. Women constitute approximately 81 percent of ShinWon’s overseas workforce, a significantly higher figure compared to global labor force participation rates reported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2023. For instance, the female labor force participation rate stands at 47.9 percent in Vietnam, 39.1 percent in Indonesia, and 41.7 percent in Guatemala. ShinWon’s commitment to gender diversity is further reflected in its leadership, with female managers comprising approximately 75 percent of managerial roles across its international subsidiaries.

To support continuous learning and professional development, ShinWon collaborates with RISE (Reimagining Industry to Support Equality) to offer various training programs. Among them, in Guatemala, the company has provided the “Digital Training Program” since November 2024, with 100 employees receiving training each month until March 2025.

ShinWon’s headquarters and global subsidiaries host various events each year to honor their employees for International Women’s Day. This year, the South Korean headquarters is celebrating the occasion by providing employees with bread and beverages, symbolizing the “Bread and Roses”. Employees were treated to bagels from a highly sought-after South Korean bakery brand, making the experience more enjoyable. Additionally, an external expert delivered a special lecture titled “How to work as Top AI Talent,” supporting employees’ professional growth. Overseas subsidiaries are also joining the celebration, with the two factories in Vietnam offering special meals, Indonesia hosting performances and distributing commemorative gifts, and Guatemala and Nicaragua organizing celebratory meals for employees, fostering a sense of recognition and appreciation.

JJ Park, CEO of ShinWon, stated: “Through these initiatives, we aim to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our female employees and remain committed to creating a stable work environment that supports career growth. We will continue to invest in programs that empower our employees to thrive.”

ShinWon Corp.’s export division currently operates 13 subsidiaries across five countries, including Guatemala, Nicaragua, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the United States, with approximately 30,000 employees in its production facilities. As a global apparel manufacturer, ShinWon remains dedicated to enhancing welfare programs and educational opportunities, upholding its corporate social responsibility while fostering gender equity in the workplace.

Posted March 11, 2025

Source: ShinWon Corp.

Vivobarefoot Unveils ‘Unbound’: A Documentary Championing Women’s Footwear Liberation

LONDON — February 7, 2025 — Vivobarefoot, a pioneer in minimalist footwear, proudly announces the release of “Unbound,” a compelling short documentary that challenges conventional beliefs about women’s footwear and its impact on health. This initiative seeks to empower women to reclaim their natural strength and embrace the benefits of barefoot movement.

For centuries, societal norms have perpetuated the idea that “beauty is pain,” leading many women to endure discomfort from narrow, pointy, and heeled shoes. These footwear choices have often been linked to persistent foot problems and broader health issues. “Unbound” delves into this narrative, shedding light on the adverse effects of modern footwear and advocating for a return to natural foot movement.

The documentary is a collaboration with visionary filmmaker Becky Hutner, known for “Fashion Reimagined,” and Oscar-nominated producer Melissa Robledo of “Food, Inc.” It features insights from five women across diverse fields—including medicine, academia, sports, wellness, and indigenous culture—each sharing their holistic health journeys and perspectives on the importance of natural foot health.

“Unbound” is not just a film; it’s a movement encouraging women to question what’s ‘normal’ in footwear, reclaim their natural strength, and discover the joy of barefoot movement. By highlighting personal stories and expert opinions, the documentary aims to inspire a shift towards healthier footwear choices and overall well-being.

Vivobarefoot invites everyone to watch “Unbound” and join the conversation on women’s footwear liberation. The documentary is available for viewing on the Vivobarefoot website.

For more information, please visit Vivobarefoot Women’s Barefoot Liberation;

https://www.vivobarefoot.com/uk/womens-barefoot-liberation

Posted: February 18, 2025

Source: Vivobarefoot

Sun Tekstil’s AI Investment To Transform The Fashion Industry

IZMIR, Turkey — February 2, 2025 — Sun Tekstil has entered into a partnership that will make waves in the fashion and textile industry. The company has invested in the U.S.-based software company Refabric (Mintgrams Technologies Inc.) — an AI-powered design platform, aiming to accelerate the digital transformation of the industry through innovative technology integration.

AI to Unify Product Development and Marketing Processes in a Single Ecosystem

Refabric, an AI-powered software company, is set to integrate the long and complex processes of inspiration, research, trend analysis, design, prototyping, product development and marketing into a single platform ecosystem for fashion professionals.

Sun Tekstil, which has been collaborating with U.S.-based Refabric for a long time, has now become a partner by investing in the company. This strategic partnership aims to accelerate product development processes and enhance operational efficiency. With its innovative and pioneering business model, Refabric is making a difference at every stage of the fashion and textile industry. By optimizing design processes, it reduces the need for physical samples and helps eliminate unpopular products beforehand, preventing waste of time and resources. Designed as an AI fashion software, Refabric transforms ideas into designs within minutes and creates collections aligned with trends.

Refabric and Sun Tekstil Partnership Wins ‘Most Effective Corporate & Startup Collaboration’ Award

In 2024, the collaboration between Refabric and Sun Tekstil won the “Most Effective Corporate & Startup Collaboration” award at the “Corporate Entrepreneurship Awards” organized by Fast Company magazine. At the end of the project, where Refabric’s innovative design tools were optimized with feedback from industry experts, Sun Tekstil reported a significant reduction in physical sample production and substantial savings in both time and cost. Following this award, the partnership between the two companies is expected to contribute further to the digital transformation of the textile and fashion industry with innovative approaches.

AI Support for the Textiles Around the World

Sun Tekstil Chairperson of the Board, Elvan Ünlütürk, commented on the investment: “We believe that technology is the future of sustainable design and production. We are keeping up with the fast-paced nature of the fashion world and fully supporting the digital transformation of the fashion and textile industry. By integrating AI into our design and collection processes through Refabric, we are accelerating our design processes, filtering, and refining our collections before they go into production. This ensures a more efficient use of our resources and supports sustainability. This investment is a testament to our commitment to digitalization and sustainability transformation in the industry.”

The Future Where Fashion and Technology Meet

Refabric Co-Founder and CEO, Begüm Doğru Öztekin, emphasized that the partnership with Sun Tekstil strengthens sustainability and digital transformation in the fashion industry, stating: “The projects we have carried out in collaboration with Sun Tekstil showcase the transformative impact of AI in the fashion and textile world.”

Refabric has been selected for LVMH’s La Maison des Startups accelerator program, which includes global fashion powerhouses such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Céline. Through this prestigious program, Refabric has the opportunity to collaborate closely with leading global fashion brands.

Posted: March 7, 2025

Source: Sun Tekstil A.Ş

NCTO Commends President Trump’s Pause On Tariffs For Imported Goods Compliant With Mexico, Canada Trade Deal; Urges Agreement To Exempt These Imports

WASHINGTON — March 7, 2025 — The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), representing the full spectrum of U.S. textiles from fiber to finished sewn products, issued the following statement today from President and CEO Kim Glas regarding President Donald Trump’s one-month suspension of tariffs for qualifying imports under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Statement by NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas:

NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas

“We sincerely thank President Trump for pausing the 25 percent penalty tariffs on qualifying imports from Mexico and Canada under the USMCA trade deal for one month, while all parties continue to negotiate a deal to address his administration’s concerns over illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking. We urge an expeditious resolution for all the parties to ensure the vitality of the U.S. textile industry.

“Under USMCA, the U.S. textile and apparel industry has formed a vital coproduction chain with Mexico and Canada that supports 1.6 million workers and generates $20 billion in two-way trade. It is by far the largest export region for American textile producers, representing $12.5 billion in combined U.S. exports — 53 percent of our total annual exports. U.S. textile inputs routinely come back as finished products to the United States under the trade agreement.

“As such, imposing tariffs on imported goods that comply with the USMCA would only serve to harm a key U.S. manufacturing sector that contributes significantly to the U.S. economy and workforce. It would also adversely impact two key trading partners and a North American coproduction chain that competes directly with China and Asia. In addition, it would further undermine the U.S. industry’s ability to make critical products for the U.S. military if this critical production chain were harmed.

“We appreciate President Trump’s delay in these tariffs and urge a more measured approach as well as a negotiated solution that at the very least exempts qualifying USMCA goods from penalty tariffs and closes the de minimis loophole once and for all.

“We look forward to working with President Trump and his administration on his trade agenda aimed at bringing jobs back to the U.S. and will continue to provide input on a plan to build a stronger, more vibrant domestic supply chain.”

Posted: March 7, 2025

Source: The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)

AAFA Announces Board Of Directors Leadership For 2025-2026 Term

WASHINGTON — March 7, 2025 — The American Apparel & Footwear Association announced the renewal of its Board of Directors leadership and the addition of new and re-elected Board members at the 2025 AAFA Executive Summit in Washington this week.

The following individuals were confirmed as AAFA’s Board of Directors leadership for the 2025-2026 term:

  • Halide Alagöz, Ralph Lauren Corp. – chair
  • Joe Preston, New Balance Athletics Inc. – vice chair
  • Katherine Gold, GoldBug – treasurer
  • Danilo Amoretty, Carhartt Inc. – secretary
  • Josue Solano, BBC International – past chair

Newly elected:

  • Michael Barton, Avery Dennison RBIS
  • Mark Burstein, Inspectorio
  • Gregg Meyer, Steve Madden Ltd.
  • Avedis Seferian, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP)

Re-elected:

  • Shawn Curran, Under Armour Inc.
  • Abbey Doneger, DONEGER | TOBE
  • Allan Ellinger, MMG Advisors
  • Sally Gilligan, Gap Inc.
  • Edward Gribbin, Gribbin Strategic LLC
  • David Katz, Randa Apparel & Accessories
  • Luis Marquina, Intradeco Apparel Inc
  • Sarah McMullin, Target
  • Melissa Nelson, SanMar
  • Joe Preston New Balance Athletics Inc.
  • James Schwartz, MGF Sourcing
  • Todd Soller, Patagonia Inc.
  • Paula Zusi, Advent International Corp.

“AAFA is a tremendous advocate for the industry led by a very resourceful team. It is an honor to take on the role of Chair,” said Halide Alagöz, chief product and merchandising officer, Ralph Lauren.

Steve Lamar, American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA)

“Halide has been an invaluable Board member since 2018 and a steady leader in our environmental initiatives and development of core value propositions,” said Steve Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. “We are eager to see the path she helps us chart forward as we navigate exciting new challenges on the journey to a more circular and sustainable economy. Thanks to Josue Solano for his mentorship, stewardship, and friendship as he led our organization for the past 12 months. His passion and commitment have been vital to ensuring heightened Board engagement over the past year. Thanks also to all our Board members, both those who are stepping down as well as those newly elected and returning, for their service to the industry and the association.”

AAFA also delivered a surprise Lifetime Achievement Award to Kurt Cavano on March 5. The award acknowledges his outstanding contributions, mentorship, and lasting commitment to the industry.

Posted: March 7, 2025

Source: The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)

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