#Sustainability

2026-05-07

A new standard to combat plastic waste in forests

With DIN SPEC 35808, Hohenstein establishes testing standards for biodegradable tree shelters

With DIN SPEC 35808 “Tree Shelter for Forestry Applications,” the testing and research service provider Hohenstein, in collaboration with Rottenburg University of Forestry, as well as forestry authorities and industry partners, has established a clear framework for bio-based and fully biodegradable tree shelters. The pre-standard defines requirements and practical testing methods designed to reduce plastic waste in forests and strengthen the long-term protection of soil and the environment.

In forestry practice, tree shelters are widely used to protect young trees during their establishment phase. At the same time, however, a growing environmental concern is emerging: many plastic shelters remain in the soil after use and can break down into macro- and microplastics over time. Ambiguous definitions of “biodegradable” further add to the uncertainty in practice. Under what conditions does complete degradation occur—only in industrial composting facilities, or also under real conditions in forest soils? And when can removal of the shelters be safely omitted?

Binding criteria and a transparent framework

“The challenge is to develop materials that are sufficiently durable to reliably protect young trees while also being fully biodegradable,” explains Mihaela Szegedi, Project Manager at Hohenstein. “Our testing methods allow us to specifically identify such materials.” This is where DIN SPEC 35808 comes in: it establishes binding criteria and standardized testing procedures for tree shelters designed to fully biodegrade under realistic forest conditions. The aim is to create a transparent and reliable basis for sustainable product decisions. Hohenstein contributes its extensive research and testing expertise in the field of biodegradation. The testing procedures include analyses of bio-based content, harmful substances, biodegradability under forest conditions, and ecotoxicity. To ensure realistic conditions, real forest soils are used, defined in collaboration with forestry authorities.

Greater guidance for users and manufacturers

DIN SPEC 35808 is aimed at both forest owners and forestry operations, as well as manufacturers of tree shelters. For users, it provides a reliable basis for decision-making, as tested products can be demonstrably converted into natural components without leaving behind microplastics or harmful substances. At the same time, manufacturers benefit from clear testing and quality criteria for developing sustainable solutions and can position certified products more visibly in the market. With this new DIN SPEC, Hohenstein makes an important contribution to reducing macro- and microplastics in forest ecosystems. The goal is to establish materials that do not require removal after use because they biodegrade naturally—thereby strengthening the long-term protection of soils, plants, and the environment.

Hohenstein publishes 2025 Sustainability Report

The testing and research service provider Hohenstein has published its latest sustainability report, outlining key progress and strategic initiatives. The report focuses on ambitious CO₂ reduction targets, the company’s new mission statement and the systematic expansion of sustainable services for customers worldwide.

New DIN SPEC assesses environmental impact of textile fragments in soil

Textile products made from synthetic fibres, finished fabrics or dyed materials release fibre fragments into the environment at every stage of their life cycle. With the new DIN SPEC 19296, Hohenstein has developed a standardised testing method to analyse how these fragments behave in soil under natural conditions. Until now, little was known about their environmental behaviour or potential ecological effects once released.

Testing and research laboratory ensures safe and more sustainable products worldwide

For 80 years, Hohenstein has stood for independent testing, scientific expertise and practical solutions. Today, the testing and research service provider supports manufacturers and brands worldwide in making textiles, hardlines and medical devices safe, more sustainable and market-ready – thereby building trust among consumers. With an international presence and interdisciplinary expertise, Hohenstein supports its customers from production through to market launch, helping them navigate an environment of growing regulatory and societal demands.

ITMF names three winners of the Sustainability & Innovation Award 2026

Three projects from the UK, Korea and China have been selected as winners of the ITMF Sustainability & Innovation Award 2026. The projects address textile-to-textile recycling, chemical recycling for automotive textiles and a regenerative approach combining silk production with ecological restoration.

180 years of TESTEX: From Zurich silk testing to global certification

For 180 years, TESTEX has developed alongside the textile industry while maintaining the same underlying purpose: creating trust through independent and reliable measurement. Founded in Zurich in 1846 as the Zurich Silk Conditioning Institute, TESTEX has grown from a local institution serving the silk trade into an international Swiss testing and certification institute for textiles and leather.

Cascale launches member-led process to shape 2030 strategy

Cascale has launched a member-led process to define the industry alliance’s strategic direction for the next decade. At the Cascale Annual Meeting 2026 in Athens, CEO Ying McGuire announced that members will contribute to an industry system map that will inform Cascale’s 10-year vision, its 2030 strategy and priorities for 2027. The new strategy is scheduled to be finalized in December.

KARL MAYER invites the Global Textile Industry to celebrate its 90th anniversary at its German Headquarters in 2027

KARL MAYER is turning its anniversary year 2027 into a milestone for the textile sector. To mark its 90th anniversary, the industry leader is inviting customers, partners, and experts from around the world to a unique event series in September aimed at pushing boundaries, unlocking new opportunities, and jointly setting the course for a new era in textiles – just as KARL MAYER has done throughout its history. The company’s headquarters in Obertshausen, near Frankfurt, is the place to be.

Durak Maxibalance thread supports users’ movement and balance comfort

Durak Tekstil, a leading brand in its industry, has developed Durak Maxibalance, a new product engineered with bio-ceramic and FAR IR technology. Ushering in a new era for sportswear, activewear, and medical textiles, this technology offers features designed to support balance and movement comfort by reflecting the energy absorbed from the body back into it.

Yarn Expo Autumn 2026 draws to a close, weaving sustainable innovation into global sourcing

Yarn Expo Autumn 2026 concluded with approximately 600 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, connecting with nearly 22,000 visitors from 110 represented markets, bringing the textile industry’s evolving material agenda into sharper focus. Held alongside Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition, CHIC and PH Value, the fair connected upstream fibre and yarn innovation with fabric development, garment production and fashion-market demand.