These forums will bring together renowned experts who will share their insights into the current challenges facing the textile industry and discuss ideas on how to achieve sustainability through innovative technologies. According to Mr Ernesto Maurer, President of Cematex, these forums provide a platform for stakeholders across the entire value chain to review the issues of the day, collaborate, and ensure a sustainable future. Delegates attending ITMA 2023 can also explore the exhibition to discover new trends and technologies in the sustainability sector.

ITMA Nonwovens Forum

The ITMA Nonwovens Forum will be a platform for experts to share ideas on how the textile industry can achieve sustainability by leveraging innovative technologies. The forum will feature a keynote presentation by Dr Bryan Haynes, Technical Director for Global Nonwovens at Kimberly-Clark Corporation (United Kingdom), who will speak on the topic of Ready Now Nonwoven Solutions for the Global Plastics Crisis. Dr Haynes will provide insights into solutions that are commercially available, highlighting Kimberly-Clark’s sustainability journey.

Dr Haynes, who has a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, believes that the Single Use Plastics Directive was a wake-up call to the nonwoven industry. He urges industry players to explore 'Coopetition' or cooperative competition as this will accelerate speed to market solutions. Following the keynote presentation, there will be two sessions with presentations by ITMA 2023 exhibitors, and the forum will end with a panel discussion on the theme of Leveraging Sustainable Innovation and Digital Technology in the Nonwoven Industry.

ITMA Textile Colourants and Chemicals Forum

The Textile Colourants and Chemicals Forum, which has been held since 2011, will have a joint keynote presentation by Mr Prasad Pant from ZDHC Foundation and Ms Sophie Mather from The Microfibre Consortium (TMC) on Textile Wastewater: Addressing Microfibre Loss during Manufacture. The presentation will focus on the impact of fibre shedding from clothing during manufacture and consumer use. A panel discussion on Unlocking the Decarbonisation Opportunity led by Fashion for Good (FFG) will also take place. The forum will be held on June 9, 2023, and the delegate fee is €219, while members of supporting organizations enjoy a preferential rate of €189.

In addition to the ITMA forums, attendees will have the opportunity to take part in other complimentary events, including the Innovator Xchange from June 9 to 13 and the Innovation Video Showcase, which will showcase selected videos from exhibitors.