ITMA 2015 is being billed as the world's largest textile and garment manufacturing technology showcase at the autumn's conference has decided will include a Textile Colourant and Chemical Leaders Forum to know the impact of chemical pollution and environmental issues on the market place and how suppliers should respond.

Alessandro Gigli, board member of the Association of Italian Textile Chemists and Colourists who chairs the forum programme committee, said that topics to be covered include the chemical/colourant suppliers' response to current environmental issues, updates on REACH regulation, new dyeing and printing technologies and their impact in a more sustainable supply chain.

They have received many paper submissions as there is strong interest in sustainability issues impacting the textile and garment industry. They hope the forum will be a focal point for meaningful dialogues which will contribute to improvements in textile and garment sector.

ITMA 2015 will be complemented by a wide range of knowledge sharing events that will feature discussions on issues that impact the textile industry's sustainability.

This year, the agenda will focus on sustainability in dyeing and finishing processes and participants will be updated on industry opportunities and best practices.

Confirmed speakers for the forum include Alberto Gallina from Benetton Group who is representing the ZDHC Group, professor Giuseppe Rosace from the Department of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Bergamo and professor Marc VanParys, president at UNITEX