The International Conference on Fashion and Sustainability (ICFS) event, which runs until 29 October, has brought together academics and industry leaders from China, Italy, the UK, and other countries.

The conference includes academic discussions, cultural activities, and exhibitions of new achievements.

Key features are a "Belt and Road" forum focused on international cooperation, three parallel sessions, and a workshop on sustainable design education.

Professor Xu Weilin, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Party secretary of WTU, highlighted the role of advanced technology, including new textile materials, eco-friendly dyeing methods, and plant-derived dyes in improving fashion design.

He stated that combining sustainable practices with the use of waste textiles is essential for developing a green industrial ecosystem.

Professor Savvas Vassiliadis from the University of West Attica in Greece also outlined the challenges posed by incorporating smart textiles and energy harvesting technologies into fashion design.

In addition, Professor Raul Fangueiro from the University of Minho in Portugal presented methods for converting agricultural by-products, including banana and pineapple leaves and marine waste algae, into high-value fibre materials through biological and physical processes.

Professor Patsy Perry from Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK addressed issues related to sustainability and craftsmanship within luxury brands.

WTU’s School of Fashion head Professor Tao Hui explained the need to move beyond regional boundaries in fashion education to build a curriculum with diverse cultural input.