"We are delighted to welcome ASTRI as a Friends of Recycling Europe sponsor. Partnering with forward- thinking actors is key to supporting innovation and advancing the shift towards a circular economy,” said Julia Ettinger, Secretary General of Recycling Europe.

Founded in 2017, ASTRI – the Italian Recycled Textile Association – was created to highlight and strengthen the work of the historic Prato Textile District, a global leader in producing high-quality fabrics from recycled raw materials.

Fabrizio Tesi, ASTRI President, added:

"Recycling is not a choice, recycling is a need''. In our sector, it is no longer an option but a responsibility that creates value, fostering not only environmental sustainability but also economic growth. The Prato district has demonstrated this for decades: recycling is an integral part of our productive DNA. With ASTRI, we are committed to enhancing this unique expertise, transforming fiber reuse into a sustainable and competitive model for the entire international textile industry.”

Through this collaboration, Recycling Europe and ASTRI aim to strengthen cooperation, amplify the voice of recyclers, and support EU policies that foster circular textile value chains.