EU's circular textile strategy summit to be held on March 26

Centexbel, Creamoda, Euratex, and Fedustria will host the ‘EU Sustainable Textiles Summit’ during the Belgian EU Presidency on March 26, 2024. This event aims to bolster awareness of the European textile strategy among European and Belgian opinion leaders and policymakers, while showcasing the Belgian textile sector's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and circularity.

The agenda features three panel discussions featuring CEOs of textile companies, experts from EU institutions and the Belgian government, and researchers:

Industrial dimension of the textile strategy: Examining the EU Textile Sustainable Strategy in relation to European Industrial Policy, this panel explores integrating sustainability into the broader narrative of competitiveness.

Global dimension of the textile strategy: Addressing the global impact of the EU Textile Strategy, this panel delves into topics like market surveillance (highlighting the Reach4Textiles study), setting global standards, and ensuring a level playing field, particularly concerning India and the US.

Innovation dimension of the textile strategy: Focusing on industry needs in technological and non-technological innovation, this panel discusses research collaboration with suppliers, customers, and academia, as well as the role of public funding, including EU projects.

Panelists include: Marie-Hélène Pradines (European Commission - DG Grow), Julie Lietaer (European Spinning Group), Carl Baeckelandt (Purfi/Concordia Textiles), Hans Dewaele (BekaertDeslee), Johan Haelterman (NBN & ISO Council), Jan Laperre (Centexbel), Pol Lombaert (BIG Floorcoverings), Wouter Verbouwe (Basaltex), Elsie De Clercq (VLAIO), and more.