Sapphire Mills Achieves SBTI Validation For Science-Based Emissions Reduction Targets

LAHORE, Pakistan — March 24, 2025 — Sapphire Mills has reached a significant sustainability milestone with the validation of its science-based emissions reduction targets by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Sapphire Mills’ Commitments:

  • Under its validated targets, Sapphire Mills is committed to reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50.4 percent by 2032, using 2022 as the base year.
  • Additionally, the company aims to achieve a 30 percent reduction in absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods, services, and capital goods within the same timeframe. The targets also account for land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.
  • For Forest, Land, and Agriculture (FLAG) emissions, Sapphire has pledged a 40% absolute reduction in Scope 3 FLAG GHG emissions by 2032.
  • Furthermore, the company has committed to maintaining zero deforestation across all primary deforestation-linked commodities by December 31, 2025. These targets align with SBTi’s 1.5°C pathway, ensuring that Sapphire’s climate action contributes meaningfully to the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Industry Leadership in Decarbonization:

Sapphire Mills is among the few companies with approved science-based targets, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. Ismael Abdullah, COO of Sapphire Mills, emphasized the company’s long-term sustainability vision, stating: “At Sapphire Mills, we recognize that the textile industry has a responsibility to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change. Our commitment to SBTi-approved targets is more than just a corporate initiative, it is a fundamental shift in how we operate, innovate, and grow. Sustainability is embedded in our DNA, and we are investing in cleaner energy, resource-efficient production, and responsible sourcing to ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come. We understand that reducing emissions isn’t just about compliance — it’s about leadership, accountability, and building a business that thrives while protecting the planet.”

The company has already achieved a 54.7 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, driven by major investments in renewable energy and sustainable manufacturing practices. The cogeneration power plant now operates entirely on 100 percent biomass, eliminating coal usage. Furthermore, a solar power plant has been installed to expand the company’s clean energy portfolio.

Posted: March 25, 2025

Source: Sapphire Mills

SPI 2025: Where Screen Printing Meets The Future – Innovation, Global Brands And Advanced Materials In Focus

BRUSSELS — March 25, 2025 — Screen printing is no longer just a printing method—it’s an innovation driver for industries worldwide. From flexible electronics to high-security printing, Screen Print Innovations 2025, organised by European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association (ESMA), will showcase the latest breakthroughs and connect industry leaders shaping the future. As the world’s only dedicated screen printing event, SPI 2025 is where researchers, manufacturers, and brands collaborate on the next wave of technological advancements.

Following the announcement of key industry leaders in screen printing for 5G/6G antennas, security printing, and fuel cells, SPI 2025 is thrilled to introduce three additional renowned speakers who will share insights into working with global brands and advancements in flexible electronics.

New Keynote Speakers

Chris Vacca: Unlocking Success with Major Brands: An Outcome-Based Approach

In today’s competitive landscape, brands like Nike seek more than just technical advancements—they demand solutions that drive real outcomes. What do industry giants like Nike truly look for in their suppliers? Chris Vacca, former Nike Innovation & Supply chain leader, will break down the winning formula for technology companies looking to work with major brands. Attendees will learn how to move beyond technical specs and deliver solutions that drive real business impact — securing long-term partnerships with global leaders.

Through real-world case studies, Vacca will demonstrate how strategic thinking, vendor collaboration, and innovation in sustainability, automation, and digitization can provide a competitive edge. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to win new business and grow existing partnerships with top-tier brands.

Vacca played a pivotal role in shaping some of Nike’s most disruptive innovation platforms, including Nike Flyknit, Nike Forward, and Nike ColorDry.

Menno Bos: Next Generation of Formable Substrates: Unlocking Innovation in Automotive and Flexible Electronics

As industries push the boundaries of design and functionality, formable substrates are transforming the landscape of automotive lighting, printed electronics, and decorative surfaces. Menno Bos, sales manager International at Kimoto Ltd., Switzerland, will explore the latest advancements in high-efficiency diffusion films and pre-cured hardcoat PC technologies. With 25 years of experience in functional coated films and a background in Industrial Automation Engineering, Bos will highlight how these cutting-edge materials enhance durability, aesthetics, and performance across industries.

Attendees will gain insights into breakthrough applications, from flexible electronics to next-generation automotive surfaces, and discover new ways to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

Philip Renners: Tailored Production with Printed Electronics Showcasing Innovations in Elderly Care

A key challenge in the development of this medical device, besides ensuring the reliable performance of the sensors, was primarily the cost and scalability of the solution. Printed electronics offer clear advantages over traditional designs of electronic components in this regard. Through additive manufacturing using printing machines, very lightweight, flexible, robust, and cost-efficient electronic components can be produced. Due to their unique properties, they are particularly suitable for use in wearables and medical technology applications. Production on specialized roll-to-roll printing machines enables high-volume manufacturing.

Philip Renners earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Münster. During this time, he was also a scientific assistant, before becoming project manager and Head of R&D at PolyTaksys. As vice president R&D at Witte Technology since 2020, he is responsible for business development as well as research and development of printed electronics.

Exhibitor Showcase at SPI 2025

Beyond expert-led sessions, SPI 2025’s exhibitor showcase will feature leading companies unveiling the latest advancements in screen printing for automation, electronics, and industrial manufacturing. Here’s a preview of what to expect:

  • CST – Unveiling a new machinery series with high resolutions and laser power.
  • Grünig and SignTronic – Presenting a modular concept for automated screen production.
  • INO – Displaying a fully automatic modular machine for high-precision printing on sensitive foils.
  • KIWO – Introducing new screen-printable protective films for safeguarding sensitive surfaces.
  • Lüscher Technologies – Unveiling a groundbreaking innovation exclusively at SPI 2025.
  • Proell – Featuring chemical products and adhesion promoters for in-mold decoration and industrial applications.
  • Sun Chemical – Showcasing inks for human-machine interfaces, combining functional and graphic inks for enhanced visual impact and reliability.
  • Technigraf – Showcasing an upgraded combination dryer featuring UV and IR radiation.
  • Thieme – Presenting a fully automatic screen printing system for various industrial sectors.

Join the Future of Screen Printing at SPI Essen

The groundbreaking advancements presented by these keynote speakers at the SPI Innovation Theatre highlight the transformative potential of screen printing across multiple industries. Industry professionals, researchers, and innovators are encouraged to attend these sessions to gain valuable insights into the latest technological trends. Registrations are free for all visitors.

Event Details:

  • Date: 3-5 June 2025
  • Location: Messe Essen, Germany

Join SPI Today: Secure your place at the leading event for screen printing innovation.

  • Visitors: spi-europe.com/visitors/visitor-registration
  • Exhibitors: spi-europe.com/exhibitors/book-your-stand
  • Stay Updated: spi-europe.com/contact

Posted: March 25, 2025

Source: European Specialist Printing Manufacturers Association (ESMA)

trinamiX Expands Its Portfolio For Plastics And Textile Identification With New Handheld Nir Spectrometer “trinamiX PAL Two”

LUDWIGSHAFEN, Germany — March 25, 2025 — trinamiX GmbH, a provider of mobile spectroscopy solutions and subsidiary of BASF, will participate in the Plastics Recycling Show Europe (PRSE) 2025, taking place in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The company will showcase its versatile technology for identifying various plastics and textiles, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the recycling process. Their solutions facilitate the design of sortable plastic packaging, ensure quality control for incoming and outgoing materials, and promote cleaner sorting methods that improve recycling efficiency. A highlight of the event will be the presentation of the new handheld spectrometer, trinamiX PAL Two. Attendees are invited to visit trinamiX at booth #E134 to experience the company’s Mobile NIR Spectroscopy Solutions firsthand on April 1-2, 2025.

trinamiX Mobile NIR (Near-Infrared) Spectroscopy Solutions: Accessible plastics and textileidentification

trinamiX provides a user-friendly solution for the quick identification of plastics and textiles with just the push of a button. This system features a robust, portable NIR spectrometer, accompanied by an app that leverages sophisticated cloud-based data analysis, along with a customer portal for managing results, downloading reports, and exporting data. The solution boasts the capability to accurately identify over 30 different types of plastics, including common consumer plastics such as HDPE, LDPE, PP, PET, PS, and PVC, as well as engineering plastics like PA, ABS, PC, and PLA. Additionally, it can quantify blends of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP).

In the realm of textile identification, the solution can detect a diverse array of fiber materials including acrylic, cotton, elastane, polyamide — with subclasses PA 6 and PA 6.6), polyester, polypropylene, silk, viscose, and wool. It also has the capability to analyze textiles composed of multiple materials.

To meet the specific needs of recyclers, trinamiX offers a flexible solution that encompasses various configurations. Users can choose between a compact handheld device for quick on-the-go checks or a semi-automated setup that can be seamlessly integrated into a sorting table, allowing for automatically triggered scans for enhanced efficiency.

Hardware portfolio expansion: trinamiX PAL Two spectrometer trinamiX will unveil the newest addition to its Mobile NIR Spectroscopy Solutions at PRSE: the handheld spectrometer trinamiX PAL Two. Attendees can look forward to live demonstrations of this new device. Designed with ergonomics in mind, trinamiX PAL Two allows for single-handed operation, making it user-friendly and convenient. Additionally, it includes a built-in display that presents measurement results directly on the device, enhancing usability and accessibility for users.

Design for recyclability – ensuring NIR detectability

Increasingly stringent regulations, such as the “Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation” in the European Union, introduce new requirements for packaging design, the use of recyclates in plastic packaging, and specifications for reusable systems. To enable efficient plastic recycling, materials must be accurately identified and sorted. As the sorting process relies on NIR technology, all material must be “NIR detectable.” The design of the packaging plays a crucial role for this parameter. Features like color, labels, additives and more can impact a packages’ ability to be identified. With trinamiX, brands can assess the impact of these features on the NIR detectability early in the design process. By designing packaging with recyclability in mind, manufacturers not only comply with regulatory requirements but also support sustainability efforts.

Hard-to-differentiate plastics and textiles: multi-material films, PE/PP, compostable plastics and PA 6/PA 6.6

Hard-to-differentiate plastics and textiles, such as multi-material films and blends of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), pose significant challenges in recycling due to their mixed compositions. Compostable plastics, while environmentally friendly, can complicate sorting processes, especially when they resemble conventional plastics. Polyamides like PA 6 and PA 6.6 are often difficult to separate and recycle, further complicating waste management efforts. The sophisticated models of trinamiX Mobile NIR Spectroscopy Solution have been trained to identify all those materials, helping to close the loop and improve recyclability.

Mobile quality control along the manufacturing and recycling process

Quality management in plastic production and recycling facilities is essential for producing high- quality products. A key element for efficient recycling of plastics is the sorting of mixed plastic waste into pure waste streams, as impurities can compromise the quality and integrity of the recycled products. From checking incoming materials to approving bales of sorted plastics or textiles, trinamiX makes quality control simple and easy. The solution also supports non- conformance management and the efficient management of complaints, reducing the risk of costly errors and delays. trinamiX not only enable companies to perform spot checks, but also to comprehensively document incoming and outgoing material flows, visualize and analyze them, thus creating comprehensive transparency for manufacturers and recyclers of plastics.

Posted: March 25, 2025

Source: trinamiX GmbH – a wholly owned subsidiary of BASF SE

Focus On Denim For Monforts At Saigontex 2025

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — March 25, 2025 — At the SaigonTex 2025 textile machinery exhibition which is taking place from April 9-12 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Monforts will highlight the benefits of its advanced finishing technologies for denim.

Over 900 Monforts THERMEX hotflue dyeing systems are now operational in the main textile producing countries, with many of them devoted to denim production, and a significant number already reaping the benefits of the Econtrol® and Econtrol®T-CA processes*.

More than 900 Monforts denim range concepts are now successfully running worldwide

Econtrol is a continuous process for the dyeing of woven cotton and cellulosic fabrics in which reactive dyestuffs are fixed into the fabric in a one-step dyeing and drying operation with a controlled combination of steam and air. The entire pad-dry process takes just two-to-three minutes at a temperature of between 120-130°C and a relative humidity volume of 25-30 percent.

Denim fabrics are stretched and skewed far more gently than with conventional range combinations.

Monforts denim range concepts which are successfully running worldwide enable the processing of high-qualtiy and reproducible fabrics which are stretched and skewed far more gently than with conventional range combinations.

The ‘double rubber’ version of a THERMEX range comprises two compressive shrinkage units and two felt calenders in line, for super elastic and bi-elastic materials. Additionally, the combined drying, stretching and skewing functions for denim fabric are possible with the ThermoStretch unit, which can also include an EcoApplicator system for the minimum application of necessary finishing chemicals.

Monforts Head of Denim Hans Wroblowski

“These latest Monforts lines allow users to be extremely versatile and respond quickly to market demand, while also allowing very short production runs,” said Monforts Head of Denim Hans Wroblowski, who will be present at the Ho Chi Minh exhibition along with specialists from the company’s regional partner, Peja Vietnam, at stand 1L01 in Hall A1.

In 2024, Vietnam surpassed Bangladesh to become the world’s second-largest textiles and apparel exporter, trailing only China, with total export revenues reaching $44 billion. This is in part due to tariffs that are currently 10 to 20 percent lower than China’s and significantly cheaper labor costs — less than half of China’s.

Typical denim range configuration.

Vietnam’s textile and apparel industry is poised for further expansion in 2025, leveraging cost advantages and rapid production turnaround while proactively managing rising logistics costs and adapting to shifting trade dynamics.

“Vietnam is now a significant market for us and we have developed long-standing relationships of mutual trust with many of the leading textile manufacturers,” says Hans Wroblowski. “Peja Vietnam has proved the perfect partner in installing and commissioning Monforts machines, with its service team working side by side with our own engineers to ensure the machines fully meet every customer expectation. Together, we are looking forward to fruitful discussions at SaigonTex.”

* Econtrol® is a registered trademark of DyStar Colours Distribution GmbH, Germany.

Posted: March 25, 2025

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG

Jens Reinig Named New CFO At Freudenberg Performance Materials

WEINHEIM, Germany — March 25, 2025 — Jens Reinig, currently senior vice president, Finance & Controlling, at Freudenberg Performance Materials, has been appointed CFO at Freudenberg Performance Materials effective April 1, 2025. He succeeds Marco Altherr, who is leaving the Freudenberg Group at his own request with effect from March 31, 2025, to take on new challenges outside the company.

Jens Reinig

“I greatly appreciated my collaboration with Marco Altherr on the management board of Freudenberg Performance Materials, both on a professional and a personal level. He made a significant contribution to the success of our company and introduced valuable forward-looking initiatives,” said CEO Dr. Andreas Raps. “Jens Reinig has many years of management experience and a deep understanding of our business. He will generate further valuable input in his role as CFO. I am looking forward to our close cooperation and to shaping the future of our company together,” Raps added.

Jens Reinig joined the Freudenberg Group in 2008 as team leader in Corporate Controlling at Freudenberg Nonwovens, the predecessor organization of Freudenberg Performance Materials. He subsequently held various positions in the company’s Finance & Controlling department. He became senior vice president, Finance & Controlling, at Freudenberg Performance Materials in 2020, holding this role until his recent appointment to the management board. Jens Reinig graduated from the University of Mannheim with a degree in business administration.

Posted: March 25, 2025

Source: Freudenberg Performance Materials Holding GmbH

INDA Calls On White House To Permanently Exclude USMCA Products From Canada, Mexico Tariffs

CARY, N.C. — March 24, 2025 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry issued the following statement on executive orders imposing significant tariffs on products from Canada and Mexico:

Last month, President Trump instituted significant tariffs on products from Canada and Mexico. While products that fall under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) have been excluded from these new tariffs to date, it has been reported that these exclusions may end in early April.

The nonwovens industry contributes to nearly $100 billion in economic output through sales to end users in North America. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, thanks to the USMCA: “one-third of critical U.S. manufacturing inputs now come from Canada or Mexico, rather than from competitors that often engage in unfair trade practices.”

At a time when manufacturers are facing cost pressures from many angles, it is imperative that American manufacturers remain competitive globally and have long-term clarity on import costs. As such, we urge President Trump to make the tariff exemption for USMCA products permanent and are ready and willing to work with the White House to promote a balanced trade policy.

For questions please contact Wes Fisher, Director of Government Affairs at wfisher@inda.org

Posted: March 24, 2025

Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Introducing Home Environments: A New Era In Smart Luxury Home Design

ELMHURST, Ill. — March 24, 2025 — A new source for luxury home design has emerged with the launch of Home Environments, a company that brings together industry experts in smart home automation, custom window treatments, and advanced lighting design. Headquartered in Elmhurst, a west suburb of Chicago, Home Environments redefines how architects, designers, and builders integrate technology into modern residential projects — creating smarter, more efficient living spaces.

Founded by Betty Brandolino, former owner and Creative director of interior design firm Fresh Twist Studio, Home Environments streamlines the design and implementation process, serving as a trusted partner for fully integrated home technology. The company offers motorized window treatments—including an in-house drapery workroom and custom lighting systems, simplifying the process from design to installation.

“The luxury home market is evolving, and technology is now a fundamental part of high-end residential design,” Brandolino said. “By combining automation, lighting, and window treatments, we’re not only elevating interiors—we’re transforming how homeowners experience and live in their spaces.”

Home Environments takes a holistic approach to luxury smart home integration, providing solutions that enhance both functionality and design. The brand’s offerings include, but are not limited to:

  • Smart Home Automation:Advanced systems that give homeowners seamless control over lighting, climate, security, and entertainment — all in an intuitive, fully integrated solution. These technologies create smart homes that effortlessly adapt to modern lifestyles.
  • Custom Window Treatments: Motorized window solutions that blend high-end craftsmanship with automation, offering privacy, light control, and energy efficiency in tailor-made designs that enhance any space.
  • Lighting Design & Solutions: Expertly designed custom lighting systems that improve ambiance, efficiency, and functionality, with flexible solutions to meet the needs of each project.

Home Environments is committed to helping trade professionals streamline workflows and integrate smart technology seamlessly.

Posted: March 24, 2025

Source: Home Environments

Better Cotton Project To Break Down Healthcare Barriers For Farmers In Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa

CÔTE D’IVOIRE, West Africa — March 24, 2025 — Better Cotton, the world’s largest cotton sustainability initiative, has launched a two-year pilot project in Côte d’Ivoire to boost cotton farming communities’ access to essential, quality healthcare services and create a replicable model for marginalised groups around the world.

The pilot project will build an accessible, community-tailored health programme for an initial 8,000 people. In Côte d’Ivoire, 46 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and the country has some of the lowest health metrics in West Africa.

Photo — Better Cotton/Landry Yao. Location — Ferkessédougou, Côte d’Ivoire, 2025.

Maria Kjaer, Smallholder Livelihoods manager at Better Cotton, said: “Farmer health and well-being are essential to supporting sustainable agriculture. We have the opportunity to remove healthcare barriers for farming communities to create a real, positive impact. I’m confident that with the support of a very committed network of partners, we can drive change in Côte d’Ivoire and beyond.”

Better Cotton has teamed up with its Programme Partner in Côte d’Ivoire, SECO — a subsidiary of Olam Agri — and Elucid, a social enterprise, to create a unique ecosystem that fosters both health outcomes and cost savings.

The two-year project will introduce Elucid’s digital healthcare platform to some of the country’s farming regions to enrol cotton farmers and connect them with local accredited healthcare providers. Elucid’s platform will ensure secure payments and enable user feedback, providing local healthcare services with a tool that can help them improve their plans.

Samuel Knauss, managing director and co-founder of Elucid, said: “With this project, we are bringing our healthcare model to cotton farmers by strengthening the capacity of agricultural producer organizations. This will ensure that farmers can access essential and emergency care without financial hardship. Building on our success in the cocoa and coffee sectors, we aim to show that investing in healthcare not only improves farmer well-being but also strengthens cotton supply chains and creates lasting impact for communities.”

Jean-François Touré, vice president & managing director of SECO, added: “At SECO, we are committed to improving the well-being of cotton farmers by pioneering a tailored health insurance model for the sector. This initiative is a crucial step in ensuring they have access to essential healthcare. This project shall serve as a reference for the industry, particularly as Côte d’Ivoire advances the implementation of its Universal Health Coverage programme. Through this partnership with Better Cotton and Elucid, we aim to create a lasting, scalable impact for farming communities.”

Better Cotton and its project partners will engage agricultural producer organizations (APOs) to promote local ownership of the platform, streamline uptake among communities, track its use, and ensure it addresses relevant challenges.

Successful implementation will increase the number of farmer households under social protection, remove barriers to healthcare and unlock opportunities for sustained investment in the service beyond the project’s end date.

By creating a working model for health programs in the cotton sector, Better Cotton can not only contribute valuable learnings to other commodities and regions, promoting more sustainable agricultural practices across sectors, but also present valuable data on the correlation between health outcomes and farmer incomes.

Posted: March 24, 2025

Source: Better Cotton

BASF Hosts Cotton Farmers At Educational Agronomic Performance Trial Summits

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — March 13, 2025 — BASF hosted 74 cotton farmers and their families across five meetings in December, January and February to share the results from over 200 Agronomic Performance Trials (APT). The farmers in attendance participated in the trials and helped plant, grow and harvest BASF test plots for cotton seed. These trials help BASF determine which varieties of FiberMax® and Stoneville® cotton seed to advance for limited release the following year1.

“Feedback from farmers is at the center of BASF innovation and the Agronomic Performance Trial program is integral to our cotton seed portfolio and allowing us to help farmers do the Biggest Job on Earth,” said Kenny Melton, Western Region Agronomic Services manager for BASF. “Since 2006, APT farmers have been a cornerstone of advancing new varieties and we are extremely grateful for their partnership and contributions.”

The Agronomic Performance Trial Summits were held in Texas — San Antonio, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Amarillo — and Charleston, S.C. Farmers in attendance were shown trial data from all test plots, new information regarding the advanced varieties and updated information on chemicals. The APT program helped introduce six new varieties of FiberMax and Stoneville cotton for the 2025 growing season1.

“Getting to see the new varieties on our farm under our conditions has been a benefit to our operation,” said Billie Fuston, a cotton farmer from Turkey, Texas. “Seeing the new technology and how it performs on different soils, plus the opportunity to attend the summit and compare notes with other producers in different areas is a big benefit as well.”

The variety trials allow BASF to evaluate performance under real world grower conditions, with larger plots and varied production management programs, as well as in broader geographies with more locations. In 2024, APT were planted in 210 locations, leading to six new varieties being added to the BASF cotton seed portfolio for the 2025 growing season.

1Availability of cottonseed containing the Axant™ Flex technology for the 2025 growing season and beyond is subject to many factors, and such seed may not be available in all cotton-growing areas. Commercial sales of cottonseed containing the Axant Flex technology will be subject to contractual terms and conditions and stewardship obligations, which may include among other requirements or restrictions on where the crop resulting from such seed may be sold, transferred and/or exported. BASF does not guarantee any publicized results and each grower is solely responsible for farming management practices and decisions, including, without limitation, selecting seed best suitable for the intended growth and use under grower’s local conditions. 

Posted: March 24, 2025

Source: BASF Corporation

Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025: Celebrating Innovation And Dynamic Development In The Sustainable Fibers Market

HÜRTH, Germany — March 24, 2025 — The Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025 (CFC 2025), held March 12-13 in Cologne, Germany, successfully brought together industry leaders, innovators and researchers to explore the latest innovations and new technologies for fibers — in textiles, hygiene products and packaging. The conference has established itself as the leading international platform for the emerging cellulose fibre industry.

Two days with high quality program and outstanding speakers highlighted the growing importance of addressing environmental concerns within the textile industry.

The main source for the production of staple fibers or filaments such as viscose, lyocell, modal or other types of new cellulose fibers is wood-based chemical pulp. At the same time, new sources such as agricultural wastes and fibers, paper grade pulp and recycled textiles are emerging on a global scale, with a variety of new sources and companies contributing new technologies, processing methods and ideas.

Biosynthetics, featured for the first time at the conference, drew significant attention. Experts discussed the challenges and opportunities of cellulose fibers and biosynthetics, with particular focus on scalability, biodegradability, and performance comparisons to conventional synthetic fibers from fossil origin.

Dynamic Engagement and Scientific Discourse

The CFC 2025 fostered vibrant discussions among attendees, with a strong emphasis on scientific advancements and sustainable practices. Participants actively engaged in sessions covering topics such as circular economy strategies fiber-to-fiber recycling from textile, marine biodegradability versus fiber microplastic formation, alternative feedstocks, and innovative technologies for pulp, fibers, biosynthetics, and yarns.

Rahul Bansal, Vice President & Head of the Global Nonwoven Business at Birla Cellulose (IN), emphasises the significance of the event: “The Cellulose Fibres Conference (CFC) has provided a unique and focused platform to the entire value chain of cellulosic fibers for knowledge sharing and making business connections. With global shift towards plastic free products, cellulose based fibers and allied industries are witnessing influx of investment in process development and innovation to improve sustainability of the products. I am confident that the conference will become even more important in future with the growing proportion of cellulose fibers in the textile industry.“

Andreas Engelhardt, The Fiber Year (CH), reported strong investment in new cellulose fiber production plants, with around 200,000 tonnes of additional capacity per year worldwide. Marina Crnoja-Cosic, Textile ETP (BE) confirmed this trend, with annual capacity growth of 17 percent between 2024 and 2029 and investments almost exclusively in Lyocell production. Simone Seisl, CR Consultant (DE), said that Lyocell is mainly replacing old viscose production and cotton, as cotton production is stagnating or even declining, partly due to climate change — and that the overall demand for textile fibers is increasing.

In order to support the development, innovation and market entry of cellulosic fibres, Dieter Eichinger, CIRFS (BE), presented a proposal for a new standard that includes all types of cellulosic fibers such as viscose, lyocell, Tencel, Modal, Cupra and new innovative fibers under the generic term “cellulose fibers.” The proposal was widely supported by the participants. Anna Palmberg, IKEA (SE), also expressed a concrete interest in using more cellulose fibers in the future.

The event witnessed heightened activity on social media platforms, with delegates sharing insights, experiences, and key takeaways using the hashtag #CFC2025. This digital engagement extended the conference’s reach, allowing a broader audience to participate in the discourse on sustainable textiles.

Innovation Award winner announced

The announcement of the “Cellulose Fibre Innovation of the Year 2025” award winners was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the conference. Sponsored by GIG Karasek, the award recognizes groundbreaking developments in the field. Every year, the award recognizes the three most promising innovations in the field of cellulose fibers, highlighting groundbreaking advancements and their potential impact. This year, for the first time, the award also offered the opportunity to recognize innovations in the field of biosynthetics. The top three outstanding technologies were honored this year for their remarkable advancements. These three pioneers will certainly pave ways in the future of the sustainable fibres industry:

  1. SA-Dynamics (Germany): Cellulose Aerogel Textiles

SA-Dynamics introduced revolutionary insulation materials made from 100-percent biodegradable cellulose aerogel fibers. These materials combine the flexibility of traditional fabrics with the superior thermal insulation properties of aerogels, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil-based and animal-derived insulation materials in textiles as well as in construction. https://sa-dynamics.com

  1. Releaf Paper France (France): Releaf Fiber

Releaf Paper France transforms urban fallen leaves into sustainable cellulose fibers, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood pulp. Their proprietary low-temperature extraction process yields high-quality fibers ideal for packaging materials, aligning with circular economy principles by repurposing urban leaf waste. https://www.releaf-paper.com/releaf-fiber/

  1. Uluu (Australia): Seaweed-Derived Biosynthetic Materials

Uluu is set to replace plastics in textiles with natural PHA polymers, derived from farmed seaweed. In partnership with Deakin University, Uluu is developing textile fibres that perform like synthetic polyester but are biodegradable in various environments, eliminating persistent microplastic pollution in fashion. https://www.uluu.com.au

Acknowledging Sponsors

The organizers extend their gratitude to all participants, speakers, and sponsors, whose support was instrumental in the success of the Cellulose Fibres Conference 2025. Especially our sponsors GIG Karasek, Birla Purocel, List Technology AG, Valmet and DIENES played a pivotal role in making the event possible. The collective efforts of all involved have set a new benchmark for innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable solutions within the textile industry.

DDI Wolfgang Aichhorn, MBA, head of Sales & Marketing at GIG Karasek, highlighted the innovative spirit of the event: “Every year, we are impressed by the outstanding innovations at the Cellulose Fibres Conference, showcasing the immense potential of sustainable fibers.”

In addition to the professional program, the conference provided ample networking opportunities. The new matchmaking tool drove meaningful connections, with more than 50 meetings scheduled at the conference, encouraging collaboration and innovation among attendees. One of the social highlights was an evening of German bowling, which fostered a lively and competitive atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed the blend of tradition and fun, creating an excellent setting for informal discussions and strengthening industry connections.

With the success of CFC 2025, the momentum towards sustainable and bio-based textile solutions continues to grow, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to shaping a greener future.

Posted: March 24, 2025

Source: nova-Institut GmbH

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