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Economy & Infrastructure

Green Deal made in Austria

It's ingenious to recognise old clothes as a raw material. In view of the enormous economic potential that lies dormant in old textiles, companies in Styria are striving to utilise this resource.

Driven by the EU-wide Green Deal initiative, which aims to promote more sustainable textile production from 2025, many companies see an opportunity for increased orders and positive change in the industry.

Waste becomes a trend

In Austria, around twelve kilograms of old clothing per capita end up in the bin every year. So far, only 22 per cent of this waste is recycled, while the rest ends up in landfill or is incinerated. The EU's Green Deal aims to ensure sustainable and recyclable textiles.

A key technology for the realisation of the project to produce new yarn from old clothes comes from the paper industry. Andritz AG, a renowned plant manufacturer, has developed innovative processes to produce so-called "circulose pulp" from old, shredded textiles. This circulating cellulose pulp is then processed into yarns or fabrics that are comparable in quality to new goods. Another focus is on sorting, with machines being developed that enable 100% sorting and automatically sort out buttons and zips.

The dawn of a greener future

The use of new yarn from shredded clothing marks a step towards a more sustainable and circular economy that promises not only environmental but also economic benefits. With the right support from the Green Deal and collaboration between industry, government and consumers, Styria could become a pioneer in sustainable textile recycling.

#schongenial - We make positive things visible, already ingenious!

 

Source: red, steiermark.ORF.at

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