Inkjet innovations allowing significant progress in the drive to reduce, water energy and chemical waste in the textile decoration process

It has been widely reported across media outlets in recent years that the textiles industry is a large contributor to global pollution with many stating it is second only to petrochemicals in the level of emissions. Attention on the sector has grown with environmental groups such as Greenpeace urging the industry to take action to clean up its act.

From this increased awareness and pressure many brands have reacted positively by committing to reaching levels of sustainability within a specified time period and by signing up to reduce the amount of hazardous chemical used in the process. Initiatives range from individual brand restricted substance lists preventing the use of certain chemicals or limiting the amount that can be used. Additionally there are umbrella programs such as ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals), Bluesign, OEKO-TEX and other organizations who are working with brands and suppliers to have more control on their practices. Unless brands realize the commitments to improve sustainability there will be a backlash as is already starting in the fast fashion sector where waste generated and environmental credentials are under great scrutiny from consumers. Truly sustainable operations require consideration of both people and planet – from the safety of the workforce through to the wellbeing of the end consumer. This focus on safety affects the entire textile supply chain: the 2019 ‘State of Fashion’ study by McKinsey identified a key consumer shift being younger generations’ passion for social and environmental issues beyond traditional corporate social responsibility (CSR).

One way to increase the sustainability of a textile printing operation is by introducing digital printing as a decoration process in place of conventional techniques such as screen printing. Digital printing provides a more efficient way of producing decorated products for the fashion, sportswear, swimwear, home textile and sign and display markets. Simply adopting a digital process can reduce water and energy consumption, CO2 emissions and waste generated.

New innovations are driving the technology to become more sustainable by allowing further reductions in water and energy without compromising on the quality and performance of the end product. Advances in chemistry, formulation and understanding of the direction brands are heading to ensure a reduced environmental impact are driving these innovations.

This webinar will review some of the challenges facing the textile industry, the benefits derived from digital printing and how some innovations are further enabling brands and their suppliers to have a more sustainable product decoration process.