Euratex calls on Europe to show global leadership on sustainable textiles
Almost 250 representatives of the textile industry in Europe gathered in Porto in mid-October for a conference called Sustainability meets Competitiveness: How to Square the Circle. It was organised by industry bodies Euratex and the Portuguese Textile Association (ATP).
Discussions focused on the current challenges in the European textile industry and the importance of innovation, creativity, quality and sustainability in forging a positive future for the sector.
In a keynote speech, Portugal’s former minister for the economy, Pedro Siza Vieira, offered an assessment of current geopolitical and macroeconomic changes. He said that while the current turbulence is causing uncertainty, he sees a better future for the industry.
A first CEO panel, addressed the theme of how to measure and communicate sustainability to consumers. Speakers addressed the issue of greenwashing and the new framework that European Commission regulations on eco-labelling, digital product passports and product environmental footprint seeks to create.
In a second CEO Panel discussing financing sustainability, looked at the cost of sustainable investments, and discussed how the entire supply chain, including brands and retailers, can contribute to this.
There were workshops with industry experts as part of the programme, followed by visits to innovative textile companies and the Portuguese textile research centre CITEVE.
Eurtatex president, Alberto Paccanelli, said at the end: “The rest of the world is watching us, as we move forward with our strategy. We should become their benchmark and Europe should become a global leader in sustainable textiles.”
