The global textile production industry has a significant environmental impact. It is estimated that it is one of the biggest producers of global carbon emissions due to the energy-intensive processes involved in manufacturing textiles. Additionally, the industry is a major contributor to water pollution, as it uses a large amount of water during the dyeing and finishing processes.
What is your contribution for a more sustainable textile industry?
Our R&D and acquisitions are focused solely on adding technologies that provide solutions in dyeing & finishing that enhance the sustainability of the process. Our technologies focus on reducing water and chemicals, lowering energy consumption, and minimizing cloth waste. All of which have multidimensional impact on our environment.
Our dedication to sustainability is reflected in our research and development strategies, which are centered around acquiring and developing cutting-edge technologies. These technologies are designed to revolutionize dyeing and finishing processes in the textile industry. By reducing water and chemical consumption, lowering energy usage, and minimizing waste, we are actively working to mitigate the industry’s environmental footprint.
Where are these technologies already used and what different applications for textiles are conceivable in future?
Our existing technologies, such as Consultex and Gaston Systems, have already made significant strides in reducing water and chemical consumption in textile production. Additionally, Tubetex and M&W drying technologies have minimized energy requirements. These solutions are versatile, finding use across multiple textile applications globally. In the future, our aspirations include pushing the boundaries of sustainability by exploring waterless dyeing, wash-free processing, and the potential elimination of drying processes, all of which offer substantial environmental benefits. These are loftier goals but offer huge sustainability benefits.
How good is the performance of this technology in comparison to the conventional finishing processes?
When introducing new technology, performance is paramount. Our guiding principle is clear: the new technology must perform equally or better than conventional methods. This aligns with the demands of our customers, textile manufacturers, and ultimately, the end consumers. Manufacturers must be able to justify their investment in these innovations. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that the sustainable solutions we offer not only meet but exceed the performance of current conventional technology, resulting in a quicker return on investment. Our aim is to make sure that the transition to sustainable technology provides a clear and rapid return on investment for manufacturers.
There are many different environmental standards around the world. What does cooperation and exchange look like internationally, and what challenges exist in the global transition to sustainable and climate-neutral textile production?
You are absolutely right; there is a multitude of environmental standards worldwide, making it challenging to navigate this complex landscape. In my view, the key question is which standards or certifications matter most to consumers. When consumers actively choose a product or brand based on recognized sustainability standards, that’s when manufacturers truly embrace these new technologies. Our objective is to not merely meet but significantly exceed international standards for waste reduction and resource consumption. While a globally harmonized standard may not be imminent, we focus our efforts on pioneering solutions that set the bar for international sustainability requirements.
How do you see the role of the industry here, and what is the role of the consumer?
Collaboration between industry players and consumers is essential for the transition to sustainability. Third-party certification groups and consortiums play a pivotal role in setting and promoting standards that manufacturers can follow. Informed consumers, who understand the significance of these standards, actively seek out products that meet them, creating a strong market demand for sustainable choices.
What is your guiding theme, what is your vision? Can you be helpful with your technologies?
In the 1990s, our strategy focused on expanding our product lines and achieving growth for its own sake. However, today, our mission has evolved. We are dedicated to delivering solutions to our customers that empower them to not only meet but exceed their sustainability objectives. I believe that by executing this mission, sustainable growth in our business will naturally follow.