Material advancements and innovations for the circular economy

Catching on to the new trends in textiles and technology, more local brands are choosing materials engineered to last longer. The aim is to produce clothing made from the most sustainable materials and futuristic/upcycled fabrics, and to ditch cheap synthetics from chemicals and polymers like spandex, nylon, and polyester. This has been the new goal for many retailers, but the process is not without its challenges. There has been an increasing demand for eco-friendly fashion providing a new frontier for material science and chemistry innovations in the apparel and footwear industry. The rising desire from both consumers and brands for advanced textile technologies has opened up the market to growth opportunities.

Surviving retail giants H&M and Zara have churned out environment-conscious labels, which include materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, combined with a strong push for sustainable programmes. H&M has championed sustainable alternatives with its Conscious Collection, and long-term goal to use 100 per cent recycled or sustainable materials by 2030.

The global synthetic fibers market is expected to grow to $88.5 billion in 2025. It is estimated that about 63% of all textiles are derived from petrochemicals, all releasing a considerable amount of CO2 emissions.

“Emission-to-textile” technology has the potential to displace the market for synthetic fibers.

Join this exciting virtual event to find out more about updates on new material innovations, brand owners’ initiatives towards a sustainable fashion route, advanced technologies and etc.

Speakers:

• (Chairperson) Nicole van der Elst Desai, Founder, VDE Consultancy

• Mattias Bodin, Circular Innovation Lab Lead, H&M Group

• Edwin Keh, CEO, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA)

• Sharon Chong, Vice President, Sustainability, Sateri

• Markus D. Herrema, CEO and Founder, Newlight Technologies

• Bruno Forcione, Head of Innovation, Footwear Strategic Sourcing, New Balance

• Anthony Schiavo, Research Director, Lux Research


Email hafizah@cmtsp.com.sg if you require more information and/or wish to register.