From Ideas to Impact: Circularity in Textiles Needs Scalable Action—Not Just Solutions

One of the strongest messages from the event was this: circularity won’t scale unless it also makes economic sense. Kicking off this conversation, Elroy Bongers (Head of Innovation & Sustainability, EMMA Safety Footwear) delivered a thought-provoking keynote that challenged the industry to avoid getting lost down “the LCA rabbit hole.” His point: without clear context and meaningful use, data alone isn’t enough.

Instead, Bongers emphasised that early adoption of tools like the Digital Product Passport (DPP) and EPR compliance strategies can provide a real competitive edge—by strengthening brand trust, reducing long-term costs, and keeping pace with regulatory evolution.

This set the tone for a sharp panel discussion on DPP and supply chain transparency, featuring Frans-Willem de Kloet (Ecochain Technologies), Marwa Zamaray (EU Climate Pact Ambassador), and Romain Narcy (Ereks Garment). The question on the table: How can businesses stay compliant and competitive?

Zamaray raised a critical concern about recent deregulation signals—particularly within the Omnibus Directive—and how cuts to the EU taxonomy scope could create loopholes. Her point was clear: weakening accountability frameworks could undermine the ambition of the circular economy.

The session delivered a pragmatic call to action:

Immediate steps for companies:

• Map supply chains (starting with Tier-1/2 suppliers) and standardise composition data.
• Engage with third-party certifications or recognised environmental/quality labels.
• Initiate digital trials, such as QR codes or DPP prototypes.

Long-term vision:

Bongers proposed a roadmap for 2030–33, envisioning full supply chain transparency, integrated reuse and recycling systems, and a strong foundation for meaningful circular practices. The session underscored a clear message: Circularity requires investment, but it also builds resilience. It’s not just a compliance issue—it’s a smart strategy for long-term profitability.

Circularity must be inclusive—not exclusive

Brand owners are demanding greater accountability, and suppliers are under pressure to comply. However, without effective incentive structures and harmonisation to support early movers and innovators, circularity risks becoming a privilege for a few rather than the standard for all. Mechanisms like eco-modulation in EPR schemes are critical—they don't just encourage compliance, they actively reward circular design and responsible material choices, levelling the playing field and driving systemic change across the industry. This was a recurring point across several sessions—from discussions on EPR design to conversations about funding models for innovators. 

Startups and innovators especially need predictable regulation, aligned incentives, and collaboration with established players to scale their impact. Otherwise, we’re asking for transformation without offering the tools to get there.

Shared standards, shared responsibility — Traceability as the foundation of trust

If there was one word that echoed throughout the event, it was traceability. Whether the topic was enzymatic hydrolysis, low-carbon dyeing, or DPP implementation, the underlying message was consistent: circularity requires clarity. If we can’t track what’s in the system, we can’t close the loop.

Tiffany Hua (Lux Research) opened the event with a sharp analysis of textile innovation. Her key takeaway: innovation isn’t only about materials, but also about interoperable tools and robust data systems. She identified near-term opportunity in alternative synthetics and recycled man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCFs), noting their performance compatibility and alignment with upcoming regulations. But she also stressed that mass adoption depends on better supply chain readiness.

Other sessions reinforced this, particularly those discussing the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) and Scope 3 emissions. Shared metrics were positioned as enablers of better decisions—allowing businesses to measure, verify, and communicate progress with confidence.

At Infinited Fiber Company, we believe traceability isn’t just a technical feature—it’s a foundation of trust between material producers and brands who want to back up their claims with real data.

Beyond the panels and presentations, the event stood out for its open, constructive atmosphere. The second-day workshops in particular provided a space for deeper discussion—moving from theory to practice and encouraging real dialogue about what circularity actually takes. One thing was clear: we don’t all agree on the exact path forward, but we share similar goals. And sometimes, hearing an alternative opinion can sharpen your own perspective.

It’s this kind of thinking that gives me hope. Because circularity isn’t just about swapping materials or technologies - it’s about changing how we see value, responsibility, and collaboration. 

What’s next?

For circularity to truly take root, we need bold but coordinated action:

• Higher collection rates for post-consumer textiles—supported by infrastructure that can sort and pre-process at scale.
• Investment in scalable recycling technologies—with strong ecosystems connecting innovators and industrial partners.
• Policy alignment and global standards—to reduce uncertainty and unlock investment.

At Infinited Fiber, we’re proud to contribute one piece of this larger puzzle. Our work on textile-to-textile recycling shows that economic viability and environmental benefit can go hand-in-hand—but only with the right partnerships and policy landscape in place.

Events like this remind us that the transition won’t happen in silos. Whether it’s sharing a sorting site, joining forces in consumer education, or simply encouraging each other through the rough patches, we all have more to gain when we move forward together.

The power of consumers: Driving circularity forward

Consumers are often left out of these discussions, but they are a powerful force for change. Every purchase is a signal to the market. Every garment choice has a ripple effect far beyond personal style.

I recently came across a post that said: “Every piece of plastic ever made still exists today.” It made me think: what if we viewed textiles the same way? Fossil-based garments don’t break down. They linger—often ending up in landfills or oceans, where they can remain for decades or longer. But that doesn’t have to be the case if they’re recycled.

That might sound heavy-handed, but the point isn’t to guilt anyone. It’s to empower people to realise that they do have influence. Choosing responsibly sourced, recyclable, or biodegradable textiles sends a message. And when that message becomes a movement, it reshapes the system. Your choices spark the change needed for a truly circular future.