Circularity on the Rise

Pursuing a Positive Path Between 'Greenwashing' and 'Greenhushing' on Both Sides of the Atlantic.

By Adrian Wilson, International Correspondent, IFJ

The last quarter of 2025 boasts three major events focusing on nonwovens supply chain sustainable initiatives.

The 2025 RISE (Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics) conference will first take place on October 14-15th at the McKimmon Center of North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina. Organized by INDA in collaboration with The Nonwovens Institute (NWI), the event has established itself as a leading forum for innovation, science, and sustainability in the field of engineered fabrics.

RISE 2025 will focus on new approaches in recycling and the circular economy, examining the efficient reuse and repurposing of raw materials to reduce waste and conserve resources. Alongside this, there will be a strong focus on the development of bio-based fibers, hybrid materials, and natural-synthetic blends, which are increasingly seen as essential for achieving higher performance with a lighter environmental footprint.

Deliver,” and “Rethinking the Thin? Tough? Built to Last? Philosophy.”

Maximizing Engagement

A variety of formats have been designed to maximize engagement. Tabletop exhibits will showcase new products and technologies, while rapid-fire ‘Lightning Talks’ will offer concise insights into research breakthroughs and early-stage innovations.

Other sessions will highlight recent progress in coatings, additives, and biobased adhesives, as well as the emerging role of enzyme technologies and biodegradation mechanisms in improving the environmental performance of nonwoven products. The transition to more sustainable packaging and the importance of machinery efficiency in cutting energy use and emissions is also on the agenda.

Some notable sessions include ”From Seaweed to Second Life: Carbon-Smart Materials for a Circular Future,” “The New Fiber Formula: Dissolve, Degrade, and

A highlight of RISE each year is the RISE Innovation Award, which recognizes breakthrough developments that address pressing industry challenges. Nominations cover raw material advances, webforming technologies, novel applications, and product development.

This year’s nominations include EsterCycle by EsterCycle, Kelsun® fiber by Keel Labs and Fentanyl Detection by Rockline Industries.

Catalyst for Change

RISE 2025 positions itself as a catalyst for change in the nonwovens sector. Its mission is to encourage collaboration between academia, industry and manufacturing, driving the adoption of circularity and biodegradability while helping to translate promising research into realworld commercial solutions.

A dedicated networking reception will feature poster presentations by graduate students and provide opportunities for delegates to connect with researchers from the Nonwovens Institute. Guided tours of the Institute’s laboratories and pilot facilities will also allow participants to see leading-edge nonwoven research and testing equipment in operation.

NWI is the world’s first accredited academic program dedicated to nonwovens and one of the leading global centers for research, education and innovation in engineered fabrics. It specializes in advancing science and technology across the entire nonwovens value chain, from fiber and polymer chemistry to process engineering and product development. NWI operates state-of-the-art pilot facilities for meltblown, spunbond, carded and hydroentangled materials, enabling both fundamental research and industrialscale prototyping. By integrating academic expertise with industry partnerships, it drives innovation in sustainable materials, novel applications and next-generation manufacturing technologies. www.riseconf.net