Textile Insight

textileinsight.com 10 • Textile Insight ~ September / October 2017 IN THE MARKET | ECO UPDATE Next Gen Naturals State of Fashion Innovative Blends and Technologies Provide an Eco Edge. Source: Cotton Lifestyle Monitor A Merino wool/Tencel blend from wool specialist ABMT represented by Concept III. here is a lot of momentum around sustainability and everyone is trying to get a piece," says Concept III Textiles founder David Parkes, who highlights new merino wool blends as a particular area of interest. "We are getting a good response to our merino wool/Tencel fabrication," states Parkes, adding that blends with Lenzing's Tencel take advantage of the sustainable attributes of cellulosics. Concept III partners with ABMT, a wool specialist and vertical supply chain partner with offices in Melbourne and Shanghai. The Australian firm has a broad range of high- quality merino wool knits enhanced with a selection of luxe blends and textures in jerseys, double knits, jacquards and slub textures. New technologies that pro- mote sustainability are also entering the market. Sudwolle Group, one of the world's largest spinners of pure wool and wool blend worsted yarns, has launched a unique treatment for wool fibers. Called Naturetexx Plasma, the process is an environmen- tally responsible alternative to the standard superwash, chlorine-hercosett process, according to the German firm. Further, In addition to securing the GOTS and Okeo-Tex certifications, Naturetexx is bluesign certified as well. "The process uses electricity and air instead of chlo- rine. It is an environmental leap forward and sets a new standard for wool processing that allows us to meet the strict requirements for bluesign, GOTS and IVN best certi- fications," says Hans-Georg von Schuh, director sales and marketing for the Group. The market is also recognizing the eco value of hemp. The natural fiber had a strong showing at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market with brands previewing a sophisticated selection of hemp blends for Spring 18 active apparel. Stand out offerings included hemp blends with recycling polyester and hemp used to give an eco edge to classics like the jean jacket. Hemp has remarkable sustainable properties; it does not require water or pesticides to grow and the plant absorbs carbon from the air. Known technically as a Phytoremediation plant, hemp restores balance and cleans soil, air and water. O T " Fashion Takes the Blame for Poor Eco Practices A "State of Fashion 2017" report found the majority of shoppers (57 percent) would lay blame at the feet of the apparel industry (manufacturers — 37 percent, brands — 13 percent, store where I bought it — 8 percent) for producing clothes in a non- sustainable manner. The apparel industry Myself The country where it was produced Total 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Male Female The fiber producer Not that important as long as I like the product

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