#Sustainability

2020-10-29

A new era begins: The renewable materials conference, Cologne and online, 18–20 May 2021

Featuring a unique concept to present all sustainable and renewable material solutions at one event: bio-based, CO2-based and recycled http://www.renewable-materials.eu

There is a growing market demand for advanced and ready-to-use sustainable material solutions with a low carbon footprint – and fossil-free. As a response to this challenge, nova-Institute has decided to unite all relevant industries in the new Renewable Materials Conference (RMC). Over three days, participants get a complete overview of the latest renewable material solutions from a wide range of sustainable raw materials and technologies. The first day will be focusing on building blocks and chemicals, the second on polymers and plastics and the third on plastic and composite materials.

nova-Institute’s renewable carbon approach aims to initiate the end of the fossil age of chemicals and plastics and builds the foundation for the RMC. Renewable chemicals, plastics, composites, fibres and other products can be produced either from biomass, directly via CO2 utilisation, or recycling. Naturally, this includes the established areas of bio-based polymers and biocomposites.

Thus, for the first time in its 25 years of experience in the field of renewable raw materials, nova-Institute presents all these material solutions jointly at one conference: Latest innovations on bio- and CO2-based chemicals and materials as well as mechanical and chemical recycling. Or in other words: All material solutions based on renewable carbon – avoiding the use of additional fossil carbon.

The conference will help shape the sustainable future of chemicals and materials and will provide new advantages and synergies by establishing a meeting point for numerous cross-sectoral networking opportunities. Participants from the industry will be able to greatly benefit from the first event of this format as it provides a platform where new market solutions can be presented and recognised to get a broad range of new prospects and materials solutions.

The Renewable Materials Conference is the follow-up event to the “13th International Conference on Bio-based Materials”, which builds on a successful history of previous conferences: In 2019, more than 270 participants attended and 30 exhibitors were present. It was the second largest event on bio-based materials in Europe and continues within this new concept. The conference also integrates topics from the “Biocomposites Conference Cologne” and extends the conference with presentations on chemicals and polymers from CO2 use (CCU) as well as new solutions from the field of recycling, so that the entire spectrum of renewable materials is covered.

The conference will be held as hybrid event – as physical meeting in which an online audience participates as well. The physical conference will take place in Cologne, Germany. Overall, 300 to 400 participants are expected.

To show of the wide range of possibilities and diversity of renewable materials, the innovation award “Renewable Material of the Year” will be granted at the conference to innovative and trend-setting products and technologies based on renewable materials. The pioneers of renewable materials from all sectors are invited to participate. http://www.renewable-materials.eu/award-application

Performance Apparels: Functional textiles drive innovation at Techtextil 2026

From high-performance fibres and advanced membranes to smart textiles and sustainable material concepts – functional apparel is becoming one of the most dynamic innovation fields in technical textiles. At Techtextil 2026, exhibitors demonstrate how new materials, finishing technologies and digital functions are shaping the next generation of protective, workwear and outdoor systems.

Texprocess 2026: Automation, digitalisation and AI reshape textile processing

Investment decisions in textile processing have become increasingly complex. Rising energy prices, labour shortages and geopolitical uncertainties are forcing companies to prioritise technologies that deliver measurable improvements in efficiency and process stability. This applies not only to apparel production, but also to the processing of technical textiles and high-performance materials. Modernisation projects are therefore being evaluated more selectively – but the pressure to upgrade production systems continues to grow. Texprocess 2026 reflects this tension between cautious investment behaviour and increasing technological demand.

Textile Chemicals & Dyes: Innovation in Textile Chemistry moves into focus at Techtextil 2026

From PFAS-free finishes and water-saving dyeing technologies to advanced coatings and recycling-compatible formulations, innovation in textile chemistry is accelerating across the industry. Reflecting this development, Techtextil 2026 introduces Textile Chemicals & Dyes as a dedicated product segment, highlighting the growing role of chemical solutions in shaping the next generation of technical textiles.

textile.4U publishes special edition “Top 100 Textile Recycling Companies 2025”

With a comprehensive 176-page special edition, textile.4U is dedicating its latest issue entirely to one of the most dynamic and influential topics in today’s textile industry: textile recycling. The new issue, published exclusively in high-quality print, presents the Top 100 textile recycling companies researched and selected by TexData – organizations that already play a key role in the transition to circular textiles or are expected to have a significant impact in the near future.

Global Standard gGmbH launches second public consultation for GRTS Draft 2 for the textile industry (1–30 April 2026)

Global Standard gGmbH is pleased to announce the release of Draft 2 of the Global Responsible Textile Standard (GRTS) for its second public consultation. The consultation will be open from 1 April 2026 to 30 April 2026, inviting stakeholders across the textile and apparel value chain to provide input and contribute to the further development of this new Standard.

Textile Exchange publishes cotton Life Cycle Assessment study to strengthen impact data

Textile Exchange has published the first in a series of seven Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies designed to improve the quality and robustness of environmental impact data for raw material production across the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. The first LCA study focuses on cotton and addresses critical data gaps and methodology variability through new high-quality data across key producing countries. The study includes organic, regenerative, recycled, and country averages for conventional cotton production systems, providing a clearer picture of the associated environmental impact.

Experts publish APAC policy priorities

Cascale today announced the publication of its APAC Policy Priorities Paper, developed by the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Policy Member Expert Team (MET) to identify key regional sustainability challenges and provide practical, aligned recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders across Asia-Pacific.

New study shows low environmental impact by Cotton made in Africa Organic Cotton from Tanzania

Today, the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) is announcing the results of a comprehensive life-cycle analysis (LCA) for cotton produced in Tanzania under the Cotton made in Africa Organic (CmiA Organic) standard. The study emphasises the small ecological footprint of CmiA Organic verified cotton. This can largely be traced back to the absence of synthetic pesticides, artificial fertilisers, and artificial irrigation. Consequently, CmiA Organic cotton can help the textile industry meet regulatory requirements as well as science-based targets. The results also show that the consequences of climate change threaten the livelihoods of these cotton farmers, even though the type of agriculture they practise barely contributes to climate change.

PERFORMANCE DAYS proves its relevance as the industry’s key meeting point

Held on March 18–19, 2026, PERFORMANCE DAYS once again confirmed its position as a leading international platform for functional textiles. A total of 3.366 trade visitors and around 560 exhibitors gathered in Munich, with the event already kicking off successfully on DAY 0, which received highly positive feedback for its interactive format. Despite challenging conditions caused by the public transport strike in Munich, the event saw strong attendance and a consistently high level of activity across both exhibition days.