NewTexEco: transition to a sustainable value chain in the textile industry
1 January 2023 - 1 January 2031
The textile sector is one of the world's largest polluters due to high water and energy consumption, large-scale CO₂ emissions, and excessive textile waste. The NewTexEco research group, a collaboration between Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), ArtEZ, and Saxion, is accelerating the transition—and research—towards a sustainable textile value chain, with design at its core.
NewTexEco-project
The NewTexEco project strengthens existing collaborations and seeks new partners among universities, businesses, and consumers to build ecosystems of knowledge and innovation. With a focus on sustainable textile innovation, it explores (bio)materials and circular work models.
Practical applications, such as sustainable design and consumer behavior, are central to the project. The goal is to develop a fully circular textile value chain that is aesthetic, functional, and regenerative, in line with European sustainability targets for 2050.
Education
The NewTexEco project is closely linked to education at HvA, sharing a commitment to sustainable innovation and practice-based research. It offers students opportunities to actively engage in real-world textile industry challenges, such as:
- Developing circular designs
- Creating sustainable production methods
- Contributing to new (bio)materials and circular work models through projects, internships, and research
Additionally, the project inspires curriculum development where sustainability and innovation take center stage. It also trains professionals to operate within a circular economy, reinforcing HvA’s role as a knowledge institution that connects education, research, and industry practice.
NewTexeco video
Transitioning to a Sustainable Textile Value Chain
Expected Outcomes
- Innovative (bio)materials: Development of new materials that can replace traditional textiles with more sustainable alternatives.
- Circular design strategies: Creation of practical solutions and methodologies for sustainable design and production.
- Extended product lifecycle: Development of tools and methods to prolong the lifespan of textile products.
- Consumer and user engagement: Encouraging sustainable consumer behavior and awareness.
- Knowledge-sharing and collaboration: Establishing a platform that connects designers, manufacturers, and consumers to exchange knowledge.
- Regenerative economy: Contributing to a fully circular textile sector in line with European 2050 sustainability regulations.
Team
- Lucie Huiskens (Projectleider) - l.huiskens@artez.nl
- José Teunissen
- Troy Nachtigall
- Leslie Eisinger
- Francesco Sollitto
Partners
- ArtEZ
- Saxion
- Modint
- NL Next Fashion and Textiles
- GIST
- Stichting TexPlus
- Producentenorganisatie Textiel
- State of Fashion
- Dutch Design Week
- Ontwerp Platform Arnhem
- Crafts Council Nederland
- Modepartners 025