The current edition Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics trade fair featured a critical session on Aug 27, 2024 on the European Green Deal and its far-reaching consequences for the global textile industry. Speakers from various sectors shared insights into the deal's potential impact and the practical measures businesses can adopt to adapt.

The speakers included Francois Souchet, MD, Swanstant, Marie-Emmanuelle Belzung, Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp, Simon Chen, Greater China Regional Lead, TextileGenesis, Pierre-Francois LelLouet, Co-President, Union Francaise des industries Mode &Habillement and session was moderated by Fabien Pacory, Vice President, CCI France Chine

Key Takeaways:

• EU Regulations Driving Change: Francois Souchet emphasized the EU's push for accountability and transparency through a series of regulations addressing waste reduction, ethical sourcing, and chemical management, compelling brands to rethink their practices.

• Traceability and Technology: The vital role of technology, including blockchain, in ensuring traceability and transparency was underscored. The importance of verified certifications and data sharing among brands and producers was discussed.

• Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage: The conference emphasized that sustainability should be seen as a competitive advantage, encouraging companies to embrace eco-friendly practices proactively.

• Global Perspectives: The discussions shed light on differing approaches to sustainability between regions, noting a perception of proactive environmental initiatives in China while the EU leads with strict regulations.

Session Highlights:

Olaf Schmidt, Vice President of Messe Frankfurt, emphasized the significance of Messe Frankfurt's 'Expertise Ecology' initiative in providing platforms for knowledge exchange and collaboration on sustainable practices. He highlighted the growing importance of sustainability, particularly in light of the European Union's policies and regulations.

The session, titled "A Green Revolution is Coming: What Does the European Green Deal Mean for the Textile Industry and What Can Your Business Do to Adapt?", opened with moderator Fabien Pacory underscoring the Green Deal's overarching goal of achieving climate neutrality in Europe by 2050. He added, "The European Green Deal is a game-changer for the textile industry. It's no longer about incremental improvements; it's about a fundamental shift toward sustainability."

"We need to move away from the linear 'take-make-dispose' model and adopt strategies that prioritize reuse, repair, and recycling of textile products."Emphasized Francois Souchet Pierre-Francois LelLouet, Co-President, Union Francaise des industries Mode &Habillement, detailed the EU's comprehensive regulatory framework aimed at reducing the industry's environmental impact and increasing accountability. He emphasized the necessity for greater transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain."Textile production accounts for a significant percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. The Green Deal aims to drastically reduce these figures", he added.

Marie-Emmanuelle Belasng, Delegate General of the European Alliance for Flax and Hemp, showcased the potential of European flax as a sustainable and premium fibre. She underscored the importance of traceability and transparency through certifications and blockchain technology.

Industry Transformation Underway:

The session showcased a textile industry undergoing a profound transformation, prioritizing data management, collaboration, and strategic partnerships to navigate the complexities of the European Green Deal. The focus on traceability and the integration of technology is also reshaping job roles and processes.

Call for Collective Action:

The Green Revolution session served as a stark reminder of the pressing need for the textile industry to adapt. Businesses are urged to view sustainability as a strategic opportunity to drive innovation, enhance their brand image, and contribute to a greener future. While the challenges are significant, the potential benefits for businesses, the environment, and society are immense. As the Green Deal sets the stage for a greener revolution, the textile industry has a crucial role to play in shaping a more sustainable world.