Recognising the growing importance of sustainability in the textile and clothing industry, industry events Techtextil and Texprocess plan to focus on this forward-looking theme. A key feature of these events will be the Nature Performance area within the Fibers & Yarns product segment.
This area showcases cutting-edge sustainable materials with impressive functional properties, ranging from bio-based to recycled or degradable options. The development of this area is being driven not only by ecological benefits but also by their performance and profitability.
Sabine Scharrer, Director - Brand Management (Technical Textiles & Textile Processing), Messe Frankfurt, says, the objective of this new program is to create platforms for innovative solutions and facilitate networking among industry players.
Among the exhibitors in the Nature Performance Area will be OceanSafe, a Swiss startup presenting its innovative ‘naNea’ solution. Manuel Schweizer, CEO, explains the superiority of their Cradle to Cradle certified fibers and yarns, which are not only biodegradable but also flame-retardant and hydrophilic, making them attractive across various applications.
Another participant, Vegeto, sees Techtextil as an opportunity to introduce its plant-based thermal insulation made from milkweed fibers to new markets. Ghyslain Bouchard, General Manager, stresses the importance of making performance eco-friendly solutions widely accessible.
In addition to showcasing innovative materials, Techtextil features FranklinTill, a renowned trend and future agency, presenting regenerative design under the title Future Materials. This exhibition offers insights into visionary designers and producers contributing to sustainable practices.
The Nature Performance area is a part of Messe Frankfurt's Econogy program, which aims to consolidate sustainability initiatives across their textile events. The program includes the Econogy Finder, an online directory listing certified sustainable exhibitors, Econogy Talks featuring high-profile discussions, and Econogy Tours led by experts to selected sustainable companies.
To be held from April 23 to 26, 2024, Techtextil and Texprocess aim to provide a crucial platform for promoting sustainability in the textile industry and fostering collaboration among stakeholders committed to eco-friendly solutions.
