#Recycling / Circular Economy

2024-01-18

Textile ETP and partners launch new textile recycling and upcycling innovation project PESCO-UP

Launched today, the PESCO-UP project focuses on transforming mixed polyester/cotton waste into high-quality and clean materials for the next use cycle, aligning with the EU's 2025 textile waste mandatory collection.

Led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, one of the leading research organisations in Europe, the PESCO-UP project will address industry challenges by, among others, creating a digital marketplace for information exchange and establishing recycling standards. The project spans 48 months, aiming to enhance the textile recycling value chain and reduce reliance on virgin materials.

The PESCO-UP project’s holistic approach also includes innovative processes such as digitalised material identification, data sharing, and advanced sorting systems. By developing feasible chemical and mechanical separation methods, the project targets up to 90% material processing efficiency.

The project not only advances in technology but also wants to lead the change in transforming this challenge into business opportunities and enhance workforce skills through targeted upskilling strategies and engaging training materials.

As part of a consortium of 19 partners working on the project, Textile ETP is taking charge of the activities related to ECOSYSTEX, an initiative fostering collaboration among EU projects focused on textile circularity. Their responsibility extends to developing ECOSYSTEX into a lasting European Community of Practice for innovation in textile circularity and sustainability. Textile ETP also leads the dissemination and communication activities for PESCO-UP, managing visual identity, website, newsletter, and social media.

More information on the PESCO-UP project on its website:

www.pesco-up.eu

Textile ETP wraps up T-REX's Policy Roundtable

The T-REX project’s policy roundtable in Brussels on November 12 was a pivotal gathering of experts and leaders committed to advancing Europe’s sustainability efforts. Concluding the event, Secretary General Lutz Walter reflected on the discussions and emphasized the core themes that resonated throughout the day.

How innovations drive BASF’s success

“Innovation has always been part of BASF’s DNA. Especially in these volatile times, it is crucial to leverage our innovative strength to develop competitive solutions that differentiate us as a company in our markets and give us a competitive edge,” said Dr. Stephan Kothrade, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF and Chief Technology Officer, at the company’s Research Press Briefing held today. To achieve this, BASF implemented its “Winning Ways” strategy about a year ago with the clear goal of becoming the preferred chemical company to enable its customers’ green transformation.

Textiles Recycling Expo announces collaboration with Future Fabrics Expo for 2026

The Textiles Recycling Expo has entered a major new collaboration with the Future Fabrics Expo which means that both events will run alongside each other at the Brussels Expo, Belgium on 24–25 June 2026. This co-location marks a significant step forward for the textile and fashion industries, bringing together two influential and complementary events under one roof.

Artificial Intelligence in focus: Heimtextil 2026 prepares global textile industry for the future with strong content programme

Artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the textile industry - from creation and production to pricing, distribution and communication. But how can AI be applied successfully, and where does it truly add value? Heimtextil addresses these questions from 13 to 16 January 2026: The comprehensive programme dedicated to the key future field AI strengthens the global industry and opens up new business opportunities as well as practical applications for design, retail, industry, architecture, interior design and contract furnishing.

Texpertise Focus AI: Messe Frankfurt puts Artificial Intelligence centre stage at its international textile and apparel trade fairs

Under the banner 'Texpertise Focus AI, Messe Frankfurt will place a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its international textile and apparel trade fairs from 2026 onwards, setting a future-shaping signal for the industry. The initiative highlights the responsible use of AI along the entire textile value chain, from fibre production to the point of sale. The programme will launch at Heimtextil in Frankfurt in January 2026.