Ence and ShareTex to Establish Textile Recycling Plant in As Pontes, A Coruña

Ence - Energía y Celulosa, a Spanish company, and Swedish start-up ShareTex have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to build a pilot textile waste recycling plant in As Pontes, A Coruña. The plant will leverage ShareTex's innovative recycling technology to process recovered fibers and will be powered by renewable energy.

The plant is part of Ence's broader recycling bioplant initiative, which aims to minimize the use of natural resources. Specifically, the plant will not use wood but will instead utilize recovered fibers, aligning with Ence's commitment to sustainability.

Why this matters: The establishment of a textile recycling plant using recovered fibers and renewable energy has significant implications for the environment and the textile industry as a whole. This project could lead to a reduction in waste and pollution, and pave the way for more sustainable practices in the industry.

ShareTex's recycling technology has been tested on a laboratory scale and offers several advantages over other chemical recycling technologies. The technology can process poly-cotton textiles, expanding the range of recyclable materials. Additionally, it does not require drastic pressure or temperature conditions and avoids the use of toxic solvents.

The plant will use post-consumer waste collected in the region and waste from the mechanical textile recycling process. The resulting textile fibers can be reintegrated into the textile value chain or used to create high-added-value products.

Ence is also forming a consortium to promote research, development, and innovation in textile waste recycling. This initiative aims to promote a circular economy in Galicia, demonstrating Ence's commitment to sustainability and the region.

The plant will be self-sufficient in renewable energy and will have minimal water consumption. It will be located on industrial land, ensuring that it does not impact natural spaces or habitats.

The MOU was signed on June 4, 2024, marking a significant step in the verification and commercialization of innovative research in textile recycling. This project represents the first step in scaling and industrializing ShareTex's technology.

Ence's commitment to sustainability and innovative recycling processes is evident through this project. The new plant in As Pontes, A Coruña, will play a vital role in promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.

Key Takeaways

• Ence and ShareTex to build textile waste recycling plant in Spain.
• Plant will use recovered fibers and renewable energy, reducing waste and pollution.
• ShareTex's tech can process poly-cotton textiles, avoiding toxic solvents and harsh conditions.
• Plant will create high-added-value products, promoting a circular economy in Galicia.
• Ence forms consortium to promote research and innovation in textile waste recycling.