#Sustainability

2023-11-23

Leading the charge: bluesign(R)'s transformative partnerships redefine sustainability in the textile industry

In a time where sustainable practices are paramount to the future of fashion, bluesign® stands out as an innovator in environmental stewardship and forward-thinking innovation. Since its inception in 2000, bluesign® has led the way in transforming the textile industry by partnering with key players, manufacturers, chemical providers, and renowned labels like Patagonia, Eileen Fisher, Nike, and Adidas.

This collective endeavor to become more environmentally conscious continues to set a higher standard for sustainability, establishing bluesign® as the premier provider of eco-conscious solutions in the textile sector.

One recent notable partnership with ERCA has led to the creation of the groundbreaking REVECOL® line in collaboration with ERCA's Textile BU. This product range seamlessly combines top-notch performance with sustainability, giving priority to well-being and environmental preservation. ERCA's unwavering dedication to research and development ensures rigorous testing for factors like biodegradability and aquatic toxicity, setting a new benchmark for responsible manufacturing. The attainment of GRS certification for the REVECOL® range by ERCA Spa is a testament to their unwavering commitment, perfectly aligning with YKK's Sustainability Vision 2050 and resulting in an impressive 20% to 30% reduction in chemical usage.

bluesign® partner Madewell, a trailblazer in sustainable fashion with mainstream audiences, has joined forces with bluesign® in 2022 to revolutionize denim production. This collaboration places a strong emphasis on environmental enhancements, worker safety, and resource efficiency through a holistic approach to sustainable chemistry. The introduction of bluesign® Approved ISKO fabrics in their inaugural denim style underscores Madewell's resolute dedication to sustainable denim production. Furthermore, the introduction of the "bluesign® DENIM" concept establishes a new standard for clean chemistry and production processes, offering consumers a reliable and sustainable fashion choice.

Furthermore in November 2022, Vibram and bluesign® formed a dynamic partnership, becoming system partners and leading the charge for sustainability in the footwear industry. Vibram's steadfast commitment to durability and quality, combined with bluesign®'s expertise, has spurred remarkable progress in chemical standards. Together, they are on the verge of certifying Vibram's Component Shoe, serving as a beacon for a sustainable future in footwear production.

In a world where environmental consciousness is essential, bluesign® and its brand partners are at the forefront of driving towards a more sustainable future.

“Production is a product”

From technical textiles and AI-driven robotics to the limitations of textile circularity: Professor Dr Thomas Gries looks back on more than two decades of development at ITA Aachen. In the interview, he explains why production technology remains a decisive success factor, discusses international collaborations and innovation ecosystems, and shares his views on the transformation of production landscapes and the challenges facing an increasingly regulated industry.

“We need to move away from the price trap and return to a value-driven mindset.”

With its new Textile Innovation Center, KARL MAYER is sending a strong signal for innovation, collaboration, and the future of textile applications. In this interview, Karl Josef Mayer discusses new opportunities in warp knitting, the processing of staple fibres, recycling, the changing role of machinery manufacturers, and why the textile industry must once again focus more strongly on the value of textiles. by Oliver Schmidt

“Innovation, resilience and international experience remain the great strengths of the Swiss textile machinery industry”

Geopolitical uncertainty, growing competitive pressure from China, new free trade agreements and the shift towards a circular economy are currently reshaping the global textile industry. In this interview, Cornelia Buchwalder discusses the current mood within the Swiss textile machinery sector, the industry’s distinctive innovative strength, new market opportunities in India and Asia, and the technological trends that could shape the upcoming trade fair cycle leading up to ITMA 2027.

Textile Exchange reports growth in certifications and industry engagement

Textile Exchange has published its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting continued growth in certified sites, industry participation and the development of its standards and membership structure. According to the report, more than 100,000 sites worldwide are now certified to Textile Exchange standards, more than three times the number recorded in 2020. Preliminary figures also indicate 12% year-on-year growth across the organization's current standards, including the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) and the Responsible Animal Fiber standards.

Naia™ from Eastman strengthens western hemisphere textile connections at Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala

As brands and retailers explore more diversified and responsive sourcing networks, the Naia™ brand from Eastman is strengthening its engagement with the textile and apparel value chain across the western hemisphere. From August 18–20, the company will participate for the first time in Apparel Sourcing Show Guatemala, a regional meeting point for apparel sourcing, manufacturing and nearshoring.

Dornbirn GFC 2026 expands conference program with new thematic sessions

For 65 years, Dornbirn GFC has stood for innovation and is one of the world’s leading conferences in the fiber industry. From September 16 to 18, 2026, the international fiber community will meet in Dornbirn, Austria, to discuss current trends, technological developments, and forward-looking solutions. More than 600 experts from industry and academia from over 30 countries are expected to attend. With around 100 presentations by renowned speakers, a 2,5-day conference program, and three parallel presentation rooms with moderated sessions, Dornbirn GFC provides a first-class platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and international collaboration. Together, participants will generate ideas and impulses that will sustainably shape the future of the global fiber industry.

Europe is committed to recycling end-of-life wind turbine blades

Starting in 2026, Europe’s wind energy industry has committed itself to ensuring that wind turbine blades do not end up in landfills once they reach the end of their service life. The EU-funded research project REWIND is exploring ways to reuse this composite waste. The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research Denkendorf (DITF) are one of 13 project partners from seven countries.

PERFORMANCE DAYS announces new focus topic & forums for October 2026

With its upcoming October 13–14, 2026 edition, PERFORMANCE DAYS is placing the spotlight on one of the textile industry’s most important transformations: “Bio-Based Materials – From Fiber to Fabric”, a two-part Focus Topic exploring the future of bio-based innovation across the textile value chain. Part 1, presented in October 2026, will focus on fibers and next-generation material developments, while Part 2 at the March 2027 edition will shift the perspective toward dyeing, finishing, additives, and processing technologies.