#Recycling / Circular Economy

2025-10-23

ASTRI becomes Friends of Recycling Europe sponsor to boost textile circularity

Recycling Europe is delighted to welcome ASTRI as a Friends of Recycling Europe sponsor, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing circular practices in the textiles sector.

"We are delighted to welcome ASTRI as a Friends of Recycling Europe sponsor. Partnering with forward- thinking actors is key to supporting innovation and advancing the shift towards a circular economy,” said Julia Ettinger, Secretary General of Recycling Europe.

Founded in 2017, ASTRI – the Italian Recycled Textile Association – was created to highlight and strengthen the work of the historic Prato Textile District, a global leader in producing high-quality fabrics from recycled raw materials.

Fabrizio Tesi, ASTRI President, added:

"Recycling is not a choice, recycling is a need''. In our sector, it is no longer an option but a responsibility that creates value, fostering not only environmental sustainability but also economic growth. The Prato district has demonstrated this for decades: recycling is an integral part of our productive DNA. With ASTRI, we are committed to enhancing this unique expertise, transforming fiber reuse into a sustainable and competitive model for the entire international textile industry.”

Through this collaboration, Recycling Europe and ASTRI aim to strengthen cooperation, amplify the voice of recyclers, and support EU policies that foster circular textile value chains.

The European Recycling Conference 2025 heads to Hamburg

The European Recycling Conference (ERC) is coming to Hamburg, Germany, on 1 October 2025. This year’s edition, co-organised with EuRIC’s German members BDSV, bvse, and VDM, will explore the topic of “Building a competitive market for recycled materials”, and their critical role in delivering on the EU’s Competitiveness Compass and Clean Industrial Deal objectives.

How innovations drive BASF’s success

“Innovation has always been part of BASF’s DNA. Especially in these volatile times, it is crucial to leverage our innovative strength to develop competitive solutions that differentiate us as a company in our markets and give us a competitive edge,” said Dr. Stephan Kothrade, Member of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF and Chief Technology Officer, at the company’s Research Press Briefing held today. To achieve this, BASF implemented its “Winning Ways” strategy about a year ago with the clear goal of becoming the preferred chemical company to enable its customers’ green transformation.

Textiles Recycling Expo announces collaboration with Future Fabrics Expo for 2026

The Textiles Recycling Expo has entered a major new collaboration with the Future Fabrics Expo which means that both events will run alongside each other at the Brussels Expo, Belgium on 24–25 June 2026. This co-location marks a significant step forward for the textile and fashion industries, bringing together two influential and complementary events under one roof.

Happy Holidays!

Dear reader, the year 2025 is drawing to a close. We are entering what we hope will be a peaceful holiday season, spending time with our families and taking a moment to pause and reflect. We hope we have been able to support you once again this year with relevant news and articles, and we look forward to surprising you with many innovations in the coming year. Enjoy the festive season, stay healthy, and we wish you a happy and joyful holiday season.

Texpertise Focus AI: Messe Frankfurt puts Artificial Intelligence centre stage at its international textile and apparel trade fairs

Under the banner 'Texpertise Focus AI, Messe Frankfurt will place a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its international textile and apparel trade fairs from 2026 onwards, setting a future-shaping signal for the industry. The initiative highlights the responsible use of AI along the entire textile value chain, from fibre production to the point of sale. The programme will launch at Heimtextil in Frankfurt in January 2026.

Autoneum and Polestar set new benchmarks for passenger experience and sustainability

As the global market leader in sustainable acoustic and thermal management, Autoneum is a key supplier of interior and exterior components for the highly anticipated Polestar 5 model. The successful collaboration between Autoneum and Polestar marks a significant milestone in sustainable automotive engineering: the electric grand tourer sports car features several innovations in lightweight, fully recyclable polyester-based components that ensure a superior driving experience. Polestar 5 was revealed at the IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich and is available in 24 markets.