15/07/2026 – Ernst Pelz Award 2026
Vaude and UPM: Award-Winning Innovation
UPM Next Generation Renewables and the sustainable outdoor brand Vaude have been awarded the 2026 Ernst Pelz Award for their joint development of the world's first fleece jacket made from wood-based polyester.
Vaude and UPM honoured for material innovation (left to right): Hubert Aiwanger, Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy; Jochen Pelz, Member of the Board of the Ernst Pelz Foundation; René Bethmann, Innovation Manager at Vaude; Holger John, Sales Manager at UPM Next Generation Renewables; Michaela Kaniber, Bavarian Minister of Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism; and Peter Pelz, Founder and Chair of the Ernst Pelz Foundation Board of Trustees. © Vaude
Vaude and UPM honoured for material innovation (left to right): Hubert Aiwanger, Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy; Jochen Pelz, Member of the Board of the Ernst Pelz Foundation; René Bethmann, Innovation Manager at Vaude; Holger John, Sales Manager at UPM Next Generation Renewables; Michaela Kaniber, Bavarian Minister of Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism; and Peter Pelz, Founder and Chair of the Ernst Pelz Foundation Board of Trustees. © Vaude