Heimtextil 2023 has been the spotlight for the global textile sector this week. As one of the most globally interconnected industries, future EU-wide supply chain legislations will challenge the home textiles industry while enabling market opportunities. With 2400 exhibitors, an exhibitor internationality level of 94%, and participants from more than 120 countries, Heimtextil 2023 took textile sustainability holistically mapped with products and innovations that showed that scalable and sustainable innovations are not a contradiction in terms.
Heimtextil exhibitors increasingly focused on transformation strategies that consider multiple Sustainable Development Goals. These included innovative sustainable product designs – from fibers made of PET to linen in combination with other natural fibers such as hemp to bed linen made of cotton coated with cork. Photovoltaic systems to cover electricity needs from renewable sources are also examples of filter systems that recycle wastewater from textile finishing. A special highlight at this year’s Heimtextil Trends was a topic that could not be more topical: Under the motto “Textiles Matter,” visitors can experience decisive approaches to a circular economy. The construction of the entire trend area is based on the Heimtextil Material Manifesto: only local, environmentally friendly, or borrowed materials will be used for the stand design.
Numerous keynote speakers highlighted important issues in the green future of the hotel bed Heimtextil Conference: “Sleep & More.” The new concept format “Sleep & More” also provides valuable orientation for hotel industry decision-makers and sheds light on hospitality trends, particularly from the perspective of sustainability: How can mattresses be part of the circular economy? Moreover, what will the sustainable hotel room of the future look like? Hospitality and sustainability experts will pool the industry’s collective knowledge and provide visitors with inspiration and impetus for their future actions.
Further this week, the printing ink specialist hubergroup Deutschland has been committed to sustainability, therefore, was awarded a silver medal by EcoVadis, the largest independent provider of sustainability ratings. hubergroup is among the top 20 percent of the more than 100,000 companies rated by EcoVadis.
Further, this week, the Chemical management specialist Oeko-Tex has confirmed that using PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) will no longer be allowed in textiles, leather, and footwear under its Standard 100, Leather Standard, and Eco Passport certifications. The company has also revealed that its Oeko-Tex STeP (Sustainable Textile and Leather Production) certification system will be integrated with GoBlu’s BHive digital chemical management smartphone app. Both announcements were made as part of Oeko-Tex’s 2023 updates to its applicable test criteria, limit values, and certification guidelines, which will come into effect during the year’s first quarter.
Further this week, the washable superabsorbent fabrics manufactured by Technical Absorbents Ltd. (TAL) have become increasingly popular within the reusable hygiene market as these promote sustainability. Now, these washable superabsorbent fabrics have achieved Oeko-Tex certification.
Further this week, the sustainable brand Hargan Denim launched a collection of jeans made with repurposed Cone Denim garments and sample fabrics from the early to mid-2000s. Made with 100 percent cotton, the fabrics were washed at the most innovative laundries of that time.
