In the ongoing search for sustainable solutions for the textile industry, among others, De Kemphaan has launched a groundbreaking pilot project in collaboration with CWS Workwear. This project, supported by a grant of 25,000 euros from the Province of East Flanders, was aimed at transforming used workwear into high-quality circular t-shirts.
The impetus for this partnership lay in the upcoming European legislation that comes into force on January 1, 2025, which will bring about a major shift in the textile industry. De Kemphaan is bracing itself for these changes and therefore participated in a progressive pilot project that provides an answer to the demands of tomorrow.
From Used Workwear to Circular T-shirts
The goal of the project was the transformation of discarded workwear into high-quality circular t-shirts. By collaborating with CWS Workwear, a leading player in the sector, De Kemphaan took on the challenge of sorting used clothing, removing foreign materials (such as zippers), and cutting it. After shredding, the ‘new’ threads could serve as building blocks for circular t-shirts, which in turn are integrated into CWS’s leasing offer for workwear.
An Integrated Approach
To achieve this ambitious goal, De Kemphaan took several steps. From assembling test batches with mixed workwear and uniforms to setting up a specialized disassembly/sorting unit, every aspect of the project was carefully developed. Employees were trained in recognizing various textile materials, using advanced rag cutters, and setting up a streamlined workflow.
Results that Speak for Themselves
The project has not only resulted in an operational unit that is ready for the 2025 legislation, but also in-depth insights into the operational challenges of incoming material flows. The insight into costs lays the foundation for transparent pricing for the services offered. Furthermore, the project has paved the way for additional initiatives, such as the upcycling of tents into fitting room curtains and the creation of travel pouches and recycling bins.
A Call for Collaboration
This story goes beyond De Kemphaan and CWS Workwear; it is a call to action for the entire textile industry. Time is running out, with only 11 months to go until the new legislation comes into effect. It is a collective effort to transform the textile industry toward a sustainable future. Let us strive together for a world where circular innovation is the norm.
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