#Sustainability

2021-09-30

SGL Carbon installs photovoltaic system at its site in Ort im Innkreis, Austria

Photovoltaic system at the SGL site in Ort im Innkreis © 2021 SGL Carbon

SGL Carbon now produces its own green electricity at its site in Ort im Innkreis. A photovoltaic system was installed on the roof of the plant. In cooperation with VERBUND, Austria's largest energy company, the system was put into operation.

• Production of own green electricity at the site in Ort im Innkreis

• Installation of a photovoltaic system with a capacity of almost 450 kWp in cooperation with VERBUND, Austria's leading energy company

At the Ort site, SGL Carbon produces fiber composite components for the automotive industry in large series. The lightweight products manufactured here support the automotive industry in further reducing CO2 emissions. For this reason, too, it is a particular concern for SGL to gradually generate the energy it needs in an increasingly green way. This system, which has a capacity of almost 450 kWp, saves around 30 tons of CO2 per year. The self-consumption rate is over 95 %, which means that the electricity generated is consumed directly in the company's own operations. The many advantages of a photovoltaic system are clear: the CO2 footprint is reduced, long-term cost security is provided and the production is more sustainable.

Herwig Fischer, Managing Director of the SGL subsidiary in Austria, is very pleased with the result: "Together with VERBUND as a reliable partner, we took the first step and decided to install a large-scale PV system. As a long-standing customer of VERBUND, we benefit from a good partnership and a competent companion on energy issues."

SGL Carbon decides to restructure its Carbon Fibers business unit

The Board of Management of SGL Carbon SE today decided, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, to restructure the loss-making Carbon Fibers business unit. SGL Carbon will significantly reduce the business activities of Carbon Fibers and focus on a profitable core. Individual solutions are being developed for all Carbon Fibers sites, including the closure of unprofitable sites.

SGL Carbon evaluates strategic options for the carbon fibers and appoints Dr. Denis Hinz as new head of the business unit

SGL Carbon SE is currently evaluating various strategic options for the Business Unit Carbon Fibers (CF). These include a possible partial or complete divestment of the Business Unit. In a first step, potential interested parties shall be approached promptly with the general data of the Business Unit to determine their interest in an acquisition. If there is sufficient interest, a structured transaction process will be carried out in a second step.

Textile Exchange publishes cotton Life Cycle Assessment study to strengthen impact data

Textile Exchange has published the first in a series of seven Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies designed to improve the quality and robustness of environmental impact data for raw material production across the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. The first LCA study focuses on cotton and addresses critical data gaps and methodology variability through new high-quality data across key producing countries. The study includes organic, regenerative, recycled, and country averages for conventional cotton production systems, providing a clearer picture of the associated environmental impact.

Experts publish APAC policy priorities

Cascale today announced the publication of its APAC Policy Priorities Paper, developed by the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Policy Member Expert Team (MET) to identify key regional sustainability challenges and provide practical, aligned recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders across Asia-Pacific.

GOTS version 8.0 released: advanced supply chain accountability, from fibre to finished product

Global Standard is pleased to announce the release of GOTS Version 8.0, the latest update to the world's leading processing standard for organic textiles. The updated Standard strengthens requirements for air emissions and waste management, as well as criteria for product safety. It introduces new provisions on circularity, microfibre management and updates in residue testing. Version 8.0 also elevates due diligence obligations and formalises governance requirements, including ESG disclosure, anti-corruption policies and conflict-of-interest safeguards, to support credible, responsible business conduct.

Advanced Recycling Conference 2026 to showcase innovations – Call for abstracts

The call for abstracts is now open for the Advanced Recycling Conference (ARC) 2026, taking place on 17–18 November 2026 in Cologne, Germany, and online. Europe’s leading platform for advanced recycling brings together hands-on solutions and cutting-edge research on recycling technologies for various waste streams like plastics, polymers, textiles or automotive, highlighting progress towards a circular renewable carbon economy.

Fraunhofer IAP paves the way for "Green" carbon fibers

A new pilot plant in Guben is set to enable the production of bio-based carbon fibers. The plant is part of the Carbon Lab Factory Lausitz and will make an important contribution to the transformation of the Lausitz region—from a traditionally raw material- and basic industry-oriented region to a hub for innovative high-performance materials. The German federal government and the state of Brandenburg are providing the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research IAP with 53.3 million euros for this purpose.

Mimaki takes DTF performance to the next level with TxF300-75Plus

Mimaki Europe, a leading manufacturer of industrial inkjet printers and cutting plotters, announces the TxF300-75Plus, an upgraded model within its high-productivity direct-to-film (DTF) printing portfolio. Following on from the success of the original TxF300-75, this enhanced version reflects Mimaki’s commitment to continuously evolving its solutions to meet the changing demands of the market.

Performance Apparels: Functional textiles drive innovation at Techtextil 2026

From high-performance fibres and advanced membranes to smart textiles and sustainable material concepts – functional apparel is becoming one of the most dynamic innovation fields in technical textiles. At Techtextil 2026, exhibitors demonstrate how new materials, finishing technologies and digital functions are shaping the next generation of protective, workwear and outdoor systems.