The project is called SORTED. Fourteen parties from different fields collaborate on innovation, recycling, and behavioral change in the textile chain. They invest in technology, employment, and sustainability.
Smart Sorting
Textile collector Sympany will automate the sorting of collected textiles using robots and artificial intelligence. Other partners are researching how discarded textiles can be recycled smartly. For example, polyester fibers can be reused for new clothing.
More Sustainable Clothing Use
Under the leadership of the University of Groningen, research is being done on how consumers can make their clothing use more sustainable. Think of buying less, choosing better, and wearing clothes longer. New circular business models and training for jobs in this growing sector are also being developed.
Grant Award
The subsidy was awarded on October 31 to the Sympany foundation in Assen. Representatives from the provinces of Groningen and Drenthe and the municipality of Emmen were present at the award ceremony.
Funding
The SORTED project receives nearly 15 million euros in subsidies. Of this, 9 million comes from the European Just Transition Fund (JTF). The Ministry of Economic Affairs contributes 6 million euros.
The Just Transition Fund is intended for regions most affected by the transition to a green economy. The European Union aims to reduce social and economic disparities with this fund.
