EDANA, the European Disposables and Nonwovens Association, hosted its 2024 Sustainability Forum, themed “Building a Sustainable Future Together,” at Brussels’ KBR Royal Library. The forum gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to address critical issues like climate change, waste reduction, and circular economy practices within the nonwovens sector.
Keynote speakers Ana Rovzar, Founder of Polygon AR, and sustainability expert Mike Barry emphasized the necessity for corporate responsibility in the face of climate challenges. Rovzar highlighted the swift global shift to renewable energy, while Barry underscored the need for companies to align their strategies with bold sustainability goals to meet consumer expectations for transparency and responsibility.
Sessions led by EDANA’s Marta Roche Díez and Brieuc Lits explored the effects of EU policies, such as the EU Green Deal, on the industry. They stressed the importance of balancing sustainability with competitiveness, positioning the nonwovens sector as a key player in the EU’s regulatory landscape. Paolo Haeusermann of Procter & Gamble discussed advancing sustainability in essential absorbent hygiene products, while Carsten Ruff from Nitto Advanced Film Solutions shared insights on embedding sustainability within corporate culture.
A focal point of the event was the transition to a circular economy. Presentations from Albert Hammerschmied of Freudenberg and Alexandre Butté of ANDRITZ Laroche explored sustainable practices in automotive materials and building insulation, showcasing the diverse applications of nonwovens in achieving circularity.
The forum concluded with a visit to the European Commission, where attendees engaged with EU policymakers on pivotal regulations. This interaction underscored EDANA’s commitment to bridging policy and practice, fostering a collaborative path forward for sustainability in the nonwovens industry.
