Bremen successfully hosts 37th International Cotton Conference
The 37th International Cotton Conference Bremen, from March 20 to 22, 2024, brought together around 400 participants from nearly 40 countries. This event, which alternates locations every two years, served as a key platform for industry experts to exchange ideas and explore latest advancements in cotton research and applications.
This year, the Bremen Parliament House provided a magnificent backdrop for the conference. In his opening remarks, President of the Bremen Parliament, Antje Grotheer, welcomed the international audience. Highlighting the conference's significance, Jean-Paul Haessig, President, Bremen Cotton Exchange, emphasized, "The presentations, insightful discussions, and industry progress showcased here solidify the Bremen conference's role as a cornerstone for exchange within the cotton community."
Axel Herrmann of the Bremen Fibre Institute (FIBRE) echoed this sentiment, underscoring the valuable synergy between science and practice fostered by the joint organization of the conference. The conference program reflected this synergy, featuring presentations by nearly 70 speakers across eleven sessions.
Keynote addresses spark discussions
The conference commenced each day with captivating keynote sessions. Colin Iles, Executive Manager Cotton & Sugar at Viterra, provided an informative and engaging overview of current commodity market trends and their impact on cotton. Analyst Veronica Bates Kassatly offered valuable insights into upcoming legislative regulations and their potential consequences for the industry. Additionally, representatives from Commerzbank, Manuel Höchemer and Lennert van Mens, presented practical guidance for navigating new EU sustainability reporting regulations. Hubertus Lohner of Airbus Operations in Bremen explored the potential of natural fibers, particularly cotton, in reducing the carbon footprint of the mobility sector, specifically aircraft construction.
Spotlight on Vietnam's dynamic textile industry
A dedicated session titled ‘Region in Focus’ provided a platform to delve into the burgeoning Vietnamese cotton and textile industry. Industry leaders Thuy Vi Nguyen (VCOSA), Yen Tracy Mai (Long Van Yarn Ltd), and analyst Graham Soley from the USDA participated in a lively discussion that shed light on the region's vibrant textile sector.
Sustainability in focus
Sustainability emerged as a pervasive theme, seamlessly interwoven throughout various discussions across the cotton supply chain. From presentations on the environmental impact of cotton cultivation systems to explorations of a circular economy for textiles, the conference addressed the industry's pressing need for sustainable practices.
A particularly noteworthy presentation was delivered by Filipe Natalio, whose research investigates the potential of natural organisms to create cotton with unique sustainable properties. Additionally, presentations by Jens Soth (Helvetas) and Stefan Schlichter (Augsburg University of Applied Sciences) sparked discussions on critical sustainability issues such as traceability, transparency, climate change's impact, and ensuring fair compensation for cotton farmers.
Recycling takes the spotlight
The conference also placed significant emphasis on advancements in textile recycling. A session exemplified the successful collaboration between research and industry by focusing on maintaining cotton fiber quality throughout the recycling process. Discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges associated with recycling this natural fiber. The topic was further explored during a pre-conference Spinning and Textile Seminar, where industry representatives addressed the intricacies of the textile recycling value chain.
The 37th International Cotton Conference Bremen proved to be a resounding success, fostering valuable dialogue and knowledge exchange within the global cotton industry. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, the conference paves the way for a more responsible and future-proof cotton sector.