ZeroF Joins Forces with ECOSYSTEX: A Sustainable Textile Revolution

In a world that constantly seeks sustainable solutions, innovative partnerships between organizations have their importance. That is why ZeroF, with its mission to replace harmful PFAS compounds in food packaging and textiles, has recently joined hands with ECOSYSTEX, the European Community of Practice for textile sustainability. This collaboration is a pivotal moment in the journey towards a more environmentally friendly and health-conscious textile industry.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, or PFAS, have become synonymous with environmental and health threats. These chemicals are pervasive in our daily lives, present in non-stick cookware, food packaging, textiles, and firefighting foam. Their persistence is alarming, as they resist breaking down and accumulate in both the environment and our bodies over time. This persistence has led to widespread concern due to the potential long-term health and environmental impacts. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the European Union has classified PFAS as substances of very high concern (SVHC) and is planning to restrict certain PFAS through a REACH restriction in 2023. Moreover, the European Commission has committed to a complete phase-out of PFAS in the long term. Despite these intentions, transitioning to non-fluorinated alternatives has been met with resistance from both industry and consumers due to the perceived lack of alternatives that can match the performance and cost-effectiveness of PFAS-based products.

Amidst these sustainability challenges in the textile industry, ECOSYSTEX has emerged to address these problems. This European Community of Practice is dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation in the textile sustainability and circularity field. With 26 EU-funded member projects, ECOSYSTEX accelerates cooperation and knowledge sharing to promote sustainable practices. ECOSYSTEX emphasizes the importance of collaboration between academic and applied researchers, technology developers, industry experts, and other stakeholders across Europe. By pooling knowledge, research results and expertise, ECOSYSTEX aims to bridge the gap between research and implementation, ensuring that the latest knowledge and technological solutions are accessible to policymakers and stakeholders. This collaborative approach is essential for the advancement of sustainable practices in the textile industry.

The collaboration between ZeroF and ECOSYSTEX is of significant interest to implement sustainable textiles. ZeroF's innovative approach to replacing PFAS compounds aligns perfectly with ECOSYSTEX's mission to accelerate collaboration in the textile sustainability and circularity field. Together, they aim to develop and promote sustainable textile solutions that will benefit not only industry stakeholders but most importantly consumers and the environment.