SOEX and Circular Republic seek to transform the traditional linear system of "produce, consume, dispose" into a continuous and sustainable cycle.
The working group, known as the "Circular Textile Platform," embraces the philosophy of waste reduction by promoting the prolonged use of resources, ultimately striving for a world without waste.
The joint efforts will explore new circular structures, transforming the vision of a waste-free world into reality, by collaborating with a diverse network of companies, initiatives, stakeholders, and representatives of scientific expertise united under the Circular Republic Platform.
Founder of the Circular Textile Platform at Circular Republic, Carl Warkentin cited his long-standing relationship with SOEX CEO Walter Thomsen and shared his commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles through his respective shoe companies, Monaco Ducks and GRND.shoes.
The long-term goal of the collaboration is to close the loop along the entire value chain of the textile industry. as well as advance the principles of the circular economy and invest in a resilient and sustainable future.
Circular Republic supports SOEX in extending its globally connected partner network from scientific and industrial sectors, facilitating dialogues with representatives from the textile industry. Their shared objective is to drive transformative impacts, reshape value chains, and create a sustainable and regenerative future.
SOEX emphasises the importance of reusing and recycling resources to conserve them and minimise waste.
The company aspires to keep 100% of used textiles in the product cycle, recognising that clothes that remain in use and are worn again significantly benefit the planet, as the material and energy used in their production do not need replacement.
However, SOEX states the textile industry still predominantly follows a linear model, with less than 1% of textile waste globally undergoing fibre-to-fibre recycling. Despite Germany's collection volume of 1.3 million tonnes of old textiles annually, the true closed loop is yet to exist, the company adds.
Acknowledging this gap, SOEX aims to optimise the cycle further and take on greater responsibility for climate protection.
