Australia: footwear, clothing and textile sectors go green
Australia’s Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) industries are preparing for the opportunities of a low-carbon world, with the support of the government.
Opening the inaugural Big Green Conference in Geelong, New South Wales, Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr welcomed the commitment of workers and business leaders to a stronger, greener industry.
“Climate change is remaking our environment and our economy,” Senator Carr said. “We can plant a few trees, but they won’t shelter our manufacturers from that reality. Good businesses face the facts and find the opportunities – and the Australian Government will help them every step of the way.
“Like most manufacturing industries, TCF faces the challenge of creating sustainable products and business practices in a changing global environment. But the rewards are there for the firms who can adapt first. TCF is well-placed to make that transition.”
More than 40% of TCF firms already invest in innovation. Among other investments, the Australian Government has invested $37 million for new textile labs at the CSIRO–Deakin University Australian Future Fibres Research and Innovation Centre in Waurn Ponds.
Initiatives include the TCF Strategic Capability Program, a five year $35 million co-investment scheme to build capabilities, strengthen supply chain management and capture opportunities in green innovation.
“So far, 10 projects have received over $20 million in funding. The projects show the sort of transformation that is possible,” said Senator Carr. “Continuing to develop our capacity for innovation will enable manufacturing to meet the challenges of the future.”
He welcomed the fact that TCF industry groups had combined to organise a conference to assist the industry respond to the challenges and opportunities of increased community concern about sustainability.
