#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.

Updated supply chain taxonomy advances apparel alignment

The apparel alliance (Apparel Impact Institute, Cascale, Textile Exchange, and ZDHC Foundation) today announced the launch of Version 2 of the Supply Chain Taxonomy, an updated harmonized framework designed to improve consistency, transparency, and collaboration across the textile, clothing, leather, and footwear (TCLF) sectors of the broader apparel industry.

Indovinya advances sustainable solutions with agreement for the supply of renewable Oxygen from Air Liquide

Indovinya, the specialty chemicals and surfactants division of Indorama Ventures, has entered into an agreement with Air Liquide — a world leader in gases, technologies, and services for industry and healthcare — for the supply of renewable oxygen. The agreement represents a strategic advancement in Indovinya’s commitment to sustainability, as it increases the share of renewable raw materials in the production of ethylene oxide, one of its key products.

Rieter sees Barmag integration on track as orders and sales rise

The first half of 2026 was shaped by the successful completion of the largest acquisition in Rieter’s history. The Man-Made Fiber Division enables entry into the growth segment of man-made fibers and sustainably strengthens Rieter’s market position in the Asia region. The expanded Group is now the world’s leading system supplier for the processing of natural and man-made fibers. In the first half of the year, initial cost savings in material costs and operating expenses have already been realized. The targeted synergies are expected to amount to at least CHF 20 million by the end of the 2028 financial year. Due to the completion of the acquisition on February 2, 2026, the first half of the year for the Man-Made Fiber Division only amounts to five months.

C&S strengthens its governance to support its evolution

C&S announces the appointment of Marco Lucietti to its Board of Directors. With extensive international experience across the textile and denim industries, Lucietti will work alongside CEO Federico Corneli, contributing to the company’s managerial development, organizational structure and long-term strategic direction.