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RITE Helps Textile Industry

Wednesday 28th of March 2007 09:55:05 PM

The new environmentally conscious textiles group, RITE, has several goals which include educating textile manufacturers in the UK about implementing safe environmental practices, and becoming more aware of the materials they waste through the year. “Ultimately, the group aims to help its members, and the textile industry as a whole, negotiate their way through the new and emerging issues that surround the world of ecotextiles. It will do this by providing fact-based information and advice on textile production, processes and products,” said Phil Patterson, Dyeing, Printing, Finishing and Colour manager for Marks & Spencer, one of the textile manufacturers that have teamed up with the University of Leeds and Ecotextile News magazine.

The group will encourage the use of new scientific methods of dye making, cotton production, and waste management. Information about quality control, intergrading organic materials where possible, and recycling materials will also become available. “Membership of the RITE group will include forward-thinking individuals and companies who can demonstrate a real commitment to sustainable changes in their working practices,” said Patterson.

Dr. Richard Blackburn, who has lead several conferences aimed at educating textile manufacturers that produce T-Shirts and other garments, is a part of the University of Leeds commented on the importance of educating others by saying, “Green issues and sustainability are increasingly becoming part of our everyday thinking; these issues are relevant to every aspect of our lives and our future.”

While some companies inside and outside the UK have switched to using organic fabrics and dyes when making T-Shirts and other clothing, more needs to be done. “The new RITE group will give member companies access to the latest technical and legislative information on these important issues and provide a range of other services and events, such as the conference in October, which will influence the way clothing is sourced and produced in the future,” said John Mowbray, the editor of Ecotextile News.

(c)Jeremy Doorten, www.sxc.hu