In a significant departure from the conventional linear textile industry, Worn Again Technologies has partnered with the recently established Alliance of Textile Chemical Recyclers (ACTR) to advance its mission of reintegrating discarded materials into the supply chain.
This partnership with the ACTR will revolutionize the textile sector by giving it a credible voice on chemical recycling. The main goal of the ACTR is to educate the industry on the nuances of recovering textile chemicals.
This is what ACTR and Worn Again Technologies hope to accomplish through outreach efforts, educational programs, and active participation. The first stage in this endeavor is the compilation of a thorough glossary of common words, intended to inform the business about the crucial procedure of chemically recycling textiles.
The agreement is motivated by a shared desire to support chemical recycling techniques that will drastically cut the quantity of textile waste that ends up in landfills and incinerators. Additionally, it aims to provide a steady supply of circular materials with sustainably derived raw materials, encouraging a more environmentally friendly strategy.
The partnership will also help retailers and brands reduce their carbon footprints, making the industry more environmentally friendly as a whole.
The construction of a state-of-the-art textile recycling demonstration facility in Winterthur, Switzerland, serves as a concrete representation of this dedication. This facility is intended to prevent the incineration of a significant 1,000 tonnes of textiles annually.
Karla Magruder, founder and president of Accelerating Circularity, said, “We formed this collective to move chemical recycling technology forward, share common definitions, and collaboratively address policies to maximize the elimination of textile waste to landfills and incineration. Chemical recycling technology has many benefits, including quality more similar to virgin fiber and the ability to recycle multiple times.
“Being a member of the ACTR underscores our commitment to revolutionizing the textile industry,” said Erik Koep, CEO of Worn Again Technologies. Chemical recycling has enormous potential and can result in finished products with qualities similar to those of virgin fibers with the potential for additional reusing. We bring technical expertise to the table as industry leaders in the chemical recycling of textiles, which will assist in fueling effective outreach initiatives elsewhere in the sector. Together, we’re actively contributing to the creation of a world free of textile waste.
