In a bold move towards a more sustainable textile industry, the Circular Systems for Trim and other Ignored Materials (CISTM) program is tackling the challenge of recycling some of the most difficult post-consumer and post-industrial textiles. This innovative initiative, driven by a team including Karla Magruder, Martha Willis, and Alina Rensch, is focused on creating circular systems for materials often overlooked in traditional recycling processes.
Recently, the CISTM team conducted a two-day visit across Europe, engaging with members of their working group to address the critical need for effective sorting systems. Collaborating with industry leaders like Avery Dennison, Coats, Refiberd, YKK, Valvan, Erdotex Group, and TOMRA, the discussions centered on overcoming the hurdles of sorting technology and scaling recycling efforts.
Key insights emerged from the meetings, highlighting the importance of speed in sorting processes due to the low economic value of these materials. Near-Infrared (NIR) technology, while not flawless, was identified as a crucial tool for detecting fiber composition and structure in used textiles. Additionally, the role of legislation in shaping future sorting systems was emphasized.
As CISTM pushes forward, the team remains committed to developing scalable solutions that contribute to a truly circular textile economy.
