A German-based viscose specialist fibre manufacturer, Kelheim Fibres has joined forces with the European Technology Platform, for the Future of Textiles and Clothing, ETP to implement two strategic programs. The two programs are Bio-Based Fibres and Circular Economy. 

As sustainability gains importance in the industry, brands and retailers and making changes in the textile supply. The partnership has commenced with the two programs to address these challenges. The main objective is to bring key players from industry and science together to progress the development of a long-term strategy to actively shape the sustainable realignment of the European textile industry.

Dr Marina Crnoja-Cosic, head of New Business Development at Kelheim Fibres, stated that they have been manufacturing bio-based fibres for over 85 years and the fibres are made from the renewable wood material and are completely biodegradable at the end of their product lifecycle. As a substitute to crude-oil based materials, these fibres are gaining popularity in various sectors. Marina added that the reason for the popularity is that they could functionalised their speciality fibres during the production process and give them the exact properties that are required for different end uses. She stated that the bio-based fibres could keep up with synthetic materials.

Kelheim’s sustainability criteria also include the full life cycle of their products. This accounts for the textile after its use and how it could become the raw material for new fibres and new products. The regenerative property was a huge advantage to Crnoja-Cosic with respect to sustainability.