Read more about the article Advances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 2

Advances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 2

The textile industry is facing significant technical challenges as it transitions from a resource-intensive and polluting sector to a circular, sustainable model. Overcoming these hurdles requires advanced recycling technologies, substantial investments, and a shift in consumer habits. With the EU driving stricter sustainability regulations, the industry's ability to innovate and address these complex technical obstacles will be crucial for creating meaningful and lasting change.

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Read more about the article Advances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 1

Advances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 1

The textile industry's environmental impact has worsened due to the rise of synthetic polyester fibers and fast fashion. These fibers are poorly biodegradable, contributing to long-term pollution. In the EU, 12 kg of textile waste per person is generated annually, with most being incinerated or landfilled. To combat this, the EU Commission proposes making producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of textiles and promoting a circular economy. However, large-scale recycling remains in its infancy, facing significant investment and technological challenges.

Continue ReadingAdvances in Recycling of Textiles Aiming at Circularity – Part 1
Read more about the article The sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – part 2 of 2

The sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – part 2 of 2

Organic cotton and genetically modified cotton (GM cotton) are opposite concepts to make cotton more sustainable. In that sense it is the target to reduce water and energy consumption of cotton agriculture and processing, and to reduce the amount of potentially hazardous chemicals, such as pesticides, released into the environment. A lot of totally contracting data can be found to support either one of the concepts, depending how things were examined and by whom studies were funded. This article tries to bring to light some of the issues related to cotton, GM and organic.

Continue ReadingThe sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – part 2 of 2
Read more about the article The sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – Part 1 of 2

The sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – Part 1 of 2

Organic cotton and genetically modified cotton (GM cotton) are opposite concepts to make cotton more sustainable. In that sense it is the target to reduce water and energy consumption of cotton agriculture and processing, and to reduce the amount of potentially hazardous chemicals, such as pesticides, released into the environment. A lot of totally contracting data can be found to support either one of the concepts, depending how things were examined and by whom studies were funded. This article tries to bring to light some of the issues related to cotton, GM and organic.

Continue ReadingThe sustainability of organic cotton and GM cotton – Part 1 of 2
Read more about the article Sustainable colouration concepts: Issues in textile processing of cotton

Sustainable colouration concepts: Issues in textile processing of cotton

Cotton processing has various ecological problems, from polluted effluents to high water and energy consumption. Various concepts to improve this situation are discussed in this article. Best available technology can achieve zero discharge, especially by careful selection of dyes and processes, proper effluent treatment and recycling concepts. Future prospects include modified cellulose fibres, by chemical modifications, or bioengineered cotton.

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