The International Wool Textile Organisation emphasizes the importance of natural materials in fostering sustainable fashion during recent talks in Milan.
The International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) actively participated in the recent Science Based Fashion Talks held from February 25 to 27 in Milan. The event was organized by Lineapelle in partnership with SPIN360, serving as a platform for industry leaders to discuss pressing sustainability issues impacting the fashion and luxury sectors.
One of the primary sessions titled “NATURAL (MATERIALS) COMMUNITIES,” was moderated by Federico Brugnoli, the Founder and CEO of SPIN360. This session was dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of renewable natural materials, which include cotton, wool, mohair, and silk. The discussion underscored the importance of these materials not only in terms of sustainability and decarbonization but also in fostering a sense of “natural communities.” This concept connects growers, producers, and innovators through a shared commitment to a sustainable future.
Dalena White, the IWTO’s Secretary General, contributed to the dialogue by emphasizing the significance of wool and other natural fibers in reaching the industry’s sustainability benchmarks. “A truly sustainable fashion industry necessitates that both positive environmental and social impacts are fully considered in fibre procurement decisions,” Ms. White stated, highlighting the close relationship between the social impact of natural fiber industries and their overall sustainability.
The talks also brought attention to the global waste crisis, particularly the environmental challenges posed by the rise of synthetic fiber production and the resulting microplastic pollution. These concerns were addressed in the context of finding holistic solutions to ensure a sustainable future for the fashion industry.
The comprehensive agenda of the Science Based Fashion Talks covered various topics including durability and ecodesign, regenerative practices, innovative approaches to leather, impact reduction strategies, and the importance of transparent data sharing in supply chains. The event successfully brought together a diverse group of international experts from scientific research, various institutions, and the fashion industry, fostering fruitful discussions on the trajectory of sustainable fashion.
Through its participation, IWTO reiterated its commitment to advocating for the sustainable use of natural fibers and supporting regulatory frameworks that recognize the environmental, social, and economic benefits that these materials contribute to the industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
