NTU Singapore and RGE launch textile research centre

The RGE-NTU SusTex project aims to accelerate innovation in textile recycling and translate research outcomes into practical solutions that can be deployed in urban settings like Singapore. 

Researchers in the S$6m joint research centre will look into areas such as next-generation eco-friendly and sustainable textiles and refabricating textile waste into fibre. The aim is to study the chemistry of various textile materials and determine the optimal processes and techniques required to start a circular textile economy.

NTU president Professor Subra Suresh said that the centre’s goal is aligned with Singapore’s zero waste vision to build a sustainable, resource-efficient and climate-resilient nation.

“This partnership between NTU and RGE draws on RGE’s industry experience as a global resources-based manufacturing group and leverages NTU’s intellectual assets in materials and environmental chemistry,” Suresh said.

RGE executive director Perry Lim said: “We want to contribute where we can achieve the most impact. More countries are banning the import of waste including textile waste. However, current textile recycling technologies, which rely on a bleaching and separation process using heavy chemicals, cannot be implemented in urban settings such as Singapore.