Products from the Chinese platforms Temu and Shein contain environmental toxins that exceed the limit value by up to 4,000 times. This was the result of a random sample taken by the environmental protection organization Global 2000. The goods also posed a waste problem.

As the global fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental footprint, a new approach is taking shape, one that turns waste into opportunity and consumption into care. In this newsletter, we explore how circular fashion is redefining the textile value chain and why it represents one of the most promising pathways toward a sustainable future.

'Sustainability' is about more than just marketing; it's about protecting the planet, supporting people, and ensuring long-term responsibility. But with so many labels out there, how can we tell which ones really matter? Certifications provide a clear answer: they verify practices, prevent greenwashing and foster trust between brands and consumers.

The programme is aimed at anyone who wants to be part of the solution: fashion enthusiasts who want to integrate sustainability into their business, people who raise awareness in their communities, educators and trainers who teach the next generation about ethical textiles, as well as career changers who want to transition into a meaningful role, and conscious consumers who want to make better decisions and inspire others.

STC partners met in Tallinn for the 3rd Transnational Project Meeting to shape the future of sustainable textile training.

The Sustainable Textile Counsellor project tackles these sustainable textile challenges by offering a modular vocational training programme. The programme provides professionals ready to lead the industry’s green transition with both theoretical grounding and practical tools. By equipping future STCs with the right tools and mindset, we are helping to create a stronger, more environmentally friendly Europe — one garment at a time!

We’re excited to share the latest updates on our journey toward sustainable textiles. In this edition, we highlight the growing focus on circular economy principles and the EU's bold steps toward sustainability.

As we embark on this exciting journey to transform the textile industry through sustainable practices, we're pleased to share the latest developments and insights from our collaborative effort. This newsletter marks the beginning of our journey to revolutionize textile education and promote circular economy practices across Europe.

The textile and fashion industry is undergoing a revolutionary shift toward sustainability, and we are excited to be part of this transformation. The Sustainable Textile Counselor, an Erasmus+ initiative, brings together experts and organizations across Europe to drive sustainable and circular economy practices in the textile sector.