The Challenges and Rewards of Implementing Sustainable Textile Technologies
Insights from NTX’s COO Peter Decorte
In the dynamic world of textiles, few journeys blend innovation, sustainability, and deep industry insight quite like that of NTX®‘s COO. His unconventional path to the top of textile technology is both inspiring and a testament to the power of thinking differently.
The Unconventional Path to Textile Innovation
Peter’s foray into textiles was as unexpected as it was lucky. Starting with a general engineering focus in college in Belgium, his path took a decisive turn towards textile engineering during his final two years, captivated not only by the sector’s technical demands but also by the chance to merge rigorous engineering with creative expression. This blend of disciplines set him on an international path, beginning with a newspaper ad seeking a textile engineer for a development program in Thailand. Just months after graduating in July, Peter was en route in September to help develop a new campus for a textile university, tasked with selecting essential equipment for a BSc program. This experience not only broadened his horizons but also embedded in him a deep appreciation for the textile industry’s multifaceted nature.
Peter’s career trajectory took him from overseeing meticulous production processes at Triumph to strategic sourcing roles for Fila and Adidas, and eventually to a leadership position at Puma. His tenure as CEO of Tong Siang for over seven years was notable for pioneering the introduction of CO2 dyeing with Dyecoo technology in the industry, other notable accomplishments included establishing new ventures in the Philippines and Indonesia. Each role enriched his industry insight, culminating in his co-founding a consulting firm before his pivotal move to NTX® as COO, signaling a deepened commitment to driving textile innovation.
On NTX®‘s Cross-Industry Approach to Sustainable Textiles
At NTX®, he discovered a culture that matched his belief in seeking solutions beyond the textile industry’s traditional confines. NTX®, fundamentally a technology company, leverages a “bird’s eye view” approach, constantly seeking out cross-industry innovations that can be adapted to enhance sustainable textile production. This perspective is crucial in an industry where professionals often operate with “blinders,” focused intensely on immediate tasks and traditional methods. NTX®‘s commitment to integrating external technological advancements into the textile domain not only sets it apart but also aligns with Decorte’s vision of driving meaningful, sustainable change in the industry.
This approach underscores the importance of openness to innovation and the willingness to explore uncharted territories for the betterment of the industry. By adopting technologies from outside the textile sphere, NTX® and Decorte are at the forefront of redefining what it means to produce textiles sustainably, marrying the pursuit of quality and creativity with an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
Navigating the Path to Innovation: The Journey of Sustainable Technologies
Peter Decorte’s journey through the textile industry is marked by a series of pioneering steps towards integrating sustainable technologies. His experience with NTX® Cooltrans® is just the latest chapter in a career that has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in textile manufacturing. Decorte’s narrative is rich with instances of working with and promoting groundbreaking technologies like Dyecoo and Dope Dyeing into a traditionally conservative industry.
The metaphor of a child learning to ride a bicycle, as Decorte describes, perfectly encapsulates the initial resistance new technologies often face. This analogy speaks volumes about the industry’s hesitancy towards change. Just as a child needs training wheels or the steady hand of a parent to find their balance, the textile industry requires guidance and patience to embrace new innovations. Decorte emphasizes that adopting new technology is a journey filled with learning curves and occasional setbacks. However, with an open mind and perseverance, these challenges can lead to significant advancements.
NTX®‘s approach to overcoming these hurdles through Joint Ventures (JV) mirrors the supportive role of a parent teaching a child to ride a bike. This strategic partnership model provides the necessary support and resources to ensure the successful integration of new technologies like NTX® Cooltrans®. It’s a testament to the belief that with the right support and a willingness to embrace change, the industry can move beyond its conservative roots. This collaborative effort not only facilitates the adoption of innovative practices but also sets the stage for a future where sustainable textile manufacturing is the norm.
Peter shared some advice to brands exploring new technologies: “Don’t quit at the first hurdle. Keep pushing.” He encourages.
“Don’t settle for merely staying upright on the training wheels. Push forward until you’re racing towards victories, mastering the technology as confidently as a cyclist in a championship.”
Redefining Sustainability: Beyond Marketing and Greenwashing
Peter’s insights into the textile industry’s sustainability challenges shed light on a critical issue: the pervasive influence of marketing on sustainability narratives. Decorte points out that while consumer awareness of sustainability has indeed grown, the industry’s approach to it is often superficial, driven by the relentless pursuit of new marketing stories. This tendency towards greenwashing is not surprising, given the marketing-centric nature of textile brands. Apparel marketers, especially within large brands, are tasked with crafting thousands of stories each season to align with their extensive product ranges. This relentless search for the “next big story” can sometimes overshadow the lasting benefits of genuine sustainable practices, such as those offered by NTX® Cooltrans® technology.
Furthermore, Peter highlighted a disconnect between government initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and the industry’s actual needs. Well-intentioned efforts by governments to regulate resource use and waste production sometimes miss the mark, not fully addressing the complexities of textile manufacturing’s environmental impact. This misalignment underscores the necessity for the industry to take the lead in defining sustainability standards. By establishing a unified code of conduct, the textile sector can create an even playing field, ensuring that sustainability efforts are both meaningful and effective.
Growing Awareness: A Need For a Collective Step Towards Sustainability
One positive point in our discussion was about the growing awareness both within and outside the sector, of the urgent need for sustainable change. Recognized as the second-largest polluter of potable water after the paper industry, the textile sector’s environmental impact is undeniable. The industry’s consumption pattern of potable water, equivalent to draining the Mediterranean Sea every two years – and giving back wastewater, underscore the critical need for a new approach.
Decorte’s optimism about the industry’s future is bolstered by the potential for technology to establish sustainable practices, especially in emerging markets like Africa. As these regions develop their textile capabilities, there’s a golden opportunity to adopt the most sustainable technologies from the outset. A prime example is a textile mill in Ghana, which has embraced dope-dyed filament technology to eliminate water use in production, setting a precedent for sustainable manufacturing.
The shift in mindset Decorte observes, particularly among early adopters at events like ITMA, signals an industry on the brink of transformation. While some companies may still be in the early stages of engagement, the interest in innovative, sustainable solutions like NTX® Cooltran®s is undeniable. This technology, with its profound environmental benefits, stands as a beacon of hope for the industry’s future.
On Leadership Philosophy and Advice for the Next Generation of Textile Professionals
Peter Decorte’s leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of servant leadership. He believes his primary role is to ensure that every team member has the necessary resources and authority to perform their duties effectively. This approach fosters an environment where innovation flourishes, as individuals feel empowered to contribute their ideas and solutions, whether they’re focused on technology or sustainability.
Decorte passionately advises the next generation of textile professionals to dive into the industry, despite the challenges it faces. He highlights a significant gap in the workforce, with a particular shortage of engineers and a decline in textile education. Contrary to the perception of textiles as a declining sector, Decorte views it as a vibrant field where one can make tangible impacts. He points out the unique connection professionals can have with their work, citing examples of athletes like Messi and Usain Bolt, who directly use the products of the textile industry. This connection, combining technical expertise with creativity, makes the textile industry uniquely rewarding.
His advice to young talents is clear: seize the opportunity to be part of an industry that’s not only about creating products but also about making a real difference in the world. The textile industry offers a platform to blend technical knowledge with creativity, providing a fulfilling career path for those willing to explore its potential.