Throughout 2021, we are focusing on the topic of sustainability along the textile chain. This issue of textile network is packed with information on how the world of textiles can adopt more sustainable, resource-efficient and environmentally friendly ways. This current issue shines a light on Goal 6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our elixir of life: water. Part 2 of this year’s series on page 10 (“Achieving the UN’s sustainability goals with textiles”) launches straight into this topic. Roland Stelzer, Managing Director of Cotonea, contradicts the myth that cotton is an excessively thirsty plant, whilst Michael Jänecke, Messe Frankfurt and Elgar Straub, VDMA, shed light on this year’s cancellation of the twin fairs Techtextil/Texprocess. In our special feature on Africa, starting on page 20, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Markus Michael, Chemnitz, provides valuable insights into opportunities for the (German) textile industry in Ethiopia. Find this and much more in the latest issue of textile network (2/2021). We hope you have an enjoyable read!
