5th Innovation Challenge of the International Competence Center for Sustainable Chemistry (ISC3)
11/28/2023
The textile industry continues to use fossil raw materials and chemicals - dyeing, impregnation and the production of synthetic fibers in particular have a negative impact on people and the environment. Ideas such as the use of recycled polyester fibers, residual materials from the food industry, high-tech fibers made from biotechnologically produced spider silk or dyes made from algae are evidence of sustainable possibilities and are already being used in initial industrial applications.
The International Sustainable Chemistry Competence Center (ISC3) aims to promote and support new ideas in the transformation of the textile industry with a view to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Some topics as examples:
New enzymatic processes to replace harmful chemicals in textile and leather production
Alternative fiber raw materials such as agricultural waste and recycled textile waste
New materials to replace synthetic fabrics or leather
Waste prevention and minimization, recycling
Improving textile supply chains
Chemical leasing concepts for textile chemicals
Application round from 1.11.23, 2 phases:
Online submission by 1.3.24
Detailed information by 30.4.24
An international jury will select the 5 best ideas and the startups/innovators will pitch for the Innovation Award at the ISC3 Investor Forum in fall or winter 2024. The ISC3 Innovation Challenge is endowed with a total of 25,000 euros. The winner will receive 15,000 euros. In addition, two further categories "Best Social Impact" and "Best Regional Impact" or "Special Impact" will be awarded with prize money of 5,000 euros each.
