62nd Dornbirn GFC Global Fibre Congress 2023

Paving the Way for Sustainable Fiber Innovations

In the ever-evolving landscape of the fiber industry, the Dornbirn GFC Global Fibre Congress has emerged as the beacon of innovation and collaboration. As the world’s leading innovation congress in “everything fibers,” the event has become the annual pilgrimage for professionals and experts from all corners of the globe. With its focus on generating new ideas and breakthroughs, the 62nd Dornbirn GFC is set to take place from September 13-15, 2023, at the Kulturhaus in Dornbirn, Austria.

The annual event brings together the entire fiber industry, encompassing key stakeholders from fiber production to textile manufacturing, brands, and retail. The congress prides itself on connecting the entire textile value chain, fostering partnerships, and presenting sustainable innovations. A lineup of 125 lectures awaits participants, promising insights into the latest research and development breakthroughs and their practical applications.

Plenary Lectures

The congress opens with plenary lectures that set the tone for the event’s innovative spirit. Stephan Sielaff, CEO of Lenzing AG, will delve into “Circularity: The New Business Model,” offering a cuttingedge perspective on the industry’s future. Furthermore, Dirk Vantyghem, CEO of EURATEX, will provide an overview of the “EU Sustainable Textiles Strategy” and its global impact, paving the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Giuseppe Gherzi, CEO of Gherzi Textil Organisation AG, will explore the prospects and challenges that lie ahead in the “2030 – a New Textile World Order” presentation. By analyzing the evolving global textile industry, Gherzi will shed light on the emerging opportunities and transformations that await the sector in the coming decade.

A notable addition to the congress is Verbund AG, a prominent energy pro-

Keynotes

vider. Rudolf Zauner, Innovation Director, will present “Energy innovations – the Key to Climate Neutrality,” highlighting the crucial role of the fiber and textile industry in achieving climate goals. This presentation underscores the industry’s commitment to sustainability and its significant impact on the environment.

University-Industry Collaboration

The Dornbirn GFC emphasizes sustainability and circular economy as central themes. To further this mission, the congress collaborates with RWTH Aachen University to offer a series of lectures focusing on sustainable innovations in the fiber industry. Topics include automation and digitalization for textile sorting, length-preserving tearing for highquality yarn production, and the use of shape memory fibers in 4D textiles, among others.

In addition to the main congress, the 3rd Innovation Days, organized in cooperation with FashionForGood and PWC, provide a platform for more than 20 innovators. These innovators will present their ideas, which range from light-curing processes for stretch textiles to quantification methods for recycled fibers in fabrics and yarns. The Innovation Days are a testament to the industry’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable fiber technology.

Honoring Excellence and Innovation

The Dornbirn GFC acknowledges contributions to the field of fiber research and development through various awards. Lenzing AG’s “Young Scientist Award” recognizes young researchers’ exceptional work with a prize of €5,000, fostering further innovation and technological progress. Moreover, the Paul Schlack Prize, awarded by the European Man-Made Fibres Association (CIRFS), celebrates R&D excellence, encouraging collaboration between academia and industry.

Key Topics Driving the Future

The Dornbirn GFC 2023 encompasses four key topics driving the future of the fiber industry. These include fiber innovation and biomaterials; sustainability and circular economy practices; nonwovens and technical textiles; and advancements in apparel and sports textiles. The congress explores these topics to inspire positive change and transformation within the industry.

The 62nd Dornbirn GFC Global Fibre Congress promises to be a platform of exciting discussions, path-breaking ideas, and groundbreaking innovations, cementing its position as the preeminent event in the fiber industry. As professionals, experts, and thought leaders gather in Dornbirn, Austria, the stage is set for a transformative journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future for fibers.