Strategic Partnership for Circular Textile Solutions
The CELLFIL consortium unites partners from six EU member states (Austria, Germany, Finland, Italy, Poland, Latvia), one associate member state (Turkey), and two self-funding partners from Switzerland. This diverse collaboration spans the entire textile value chain, involving feedstock suppliers, European textile manufacturers, lyocell filament producers, automotive seat manufacturers, and sportswear companies.
With a unique mix of global players and SMEs, the consortium offers integrated solutions for circular value chains. Expertise includes lyocell filament production, yarn functionalization, product development, sustainability consulting, and outreach management, ensuring the project’s success.
Related Initiatives

TexMaTer - Retrieving novel TEXtile solutions from MArine and TERrestrial biomass
The TexMaTer project aims to produce novel cellulosic fibers and bioformulations for sustainable textiles. By utilizing under-utilized biomass resources, including agricultural waste, micro- and macroalgae, and post-consumer home textiles, TexMaTer creates functional solutions. These innovations will be used in prototypes for fashion and home textiles. …

Bio-LUSH - Biomass Valorization for Sustainable and High Quality Fiber Materials
Bio-LUSH is developing a more sustainable way to produce high-quality biofibres from underutilised biomass such as nettle, hemp, and seagrass. Instead of relying on conventional, chemical-intensive fibre extraction methods, the project uses a milder processing approach based on alkaline treatment, enzymes, and ozone bleaching.
This significantly reduces the use of harsh chemicals while lowering environmental impacts and enabling regional biomass processing. The resulting biofibres are tailored for applications in textiles, food packaging, and composite materials, supporting the transition towards a more circular and sustainable European bioeconomy.

Fabulose - Vegan, circular leather alternatives made from bacterial cellulose
(2025 – 2028) Fabulose is a project funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU).
It aims to develop scalable manufacturing processes for fossil-free leather alternatives made from bacterial cellulose and cyanophycin.
HALO-TEX - Halophyte Biorefinery Process for Sustainable Production of Textiles, Composites, and High-Value Biochemicals
(2025-2029) HALO-TEX is an EU-funded project developing an innovative biorefinery system that converts halophytes (salt-tolerant plants) into sustainable yarns, textiles, and chemical products, offering a renewable alternative to fossil-based resources. The project introduces a novel extraction process with reduced environmental impact and promotes circularity by recycling materials and bioproducts throughout the value chain. In doing so, HALO-TEX supports the EU bioeconomy, helping to create new value chains and jobs, particularly in rural areas.
RTDS Association
RTDS Group is a multidisciplinary competence centre for applied social and economic sciences, advancing innovation and sustainability through EU-funded research and innovation projects.
RTDS provides expertise in proposal development, project implementation, and communication, dissemination and exploitation, translating research results into societal, economic and policy-relevant impact.
LENZING Aktiengesellschaft
Lenzing Group is a global leader in producing fibers from wood for textiles, nonwovens, and industrial applications. For 80 years, Lenzing has innovated beyond fiber, using wood as a natural resource.
We drive sustainability through a circular economy model, focusing on preserving the environment. With 1,487 patent applications across 52 countries, Lenzing’s innovation benefits the economy, environment, and society.
Our fibers, such as TENCEL™ and VEOCEL™, enhance fashion, home textiles, and hygiene products, offering versatility, biodegradability, and gentle care. Sustainability isn’t just a goal for Lenzing—it’s a passion reflected in their commitment to protecting the planet.
FILATI Miroslaw Kubiak Spolka Komandytowo-Akcyjna
Filati is a leading manufacturer of functional, thermoactive sports and outdoor clothing, as well as seamless cotton and wool underwear. Our state-of-the-art factory in Zduńska Wola, Poland—a city with a rich weaving tradition – utilizes advanced Italian machinery to produce world-class garments.
We combine scientific research, the expertise of professional athletes, and our proprietary knowledge of raw materials to create innovative products.
Unlike many companies outsourcing to distant locations, our local production ensures 100% control and flexibility, allowing us to maintain the highest standards of quality from yarn creation to final packaging.
Aalto University
Aalto University’s purpose is to shape a sustainable future through high-quality education and research. We inspire the game changers of tomorrow and renew society with research-based knowledge, creativity, and an entrepreneurial mindset. All our work is guided by the university’s values: responsibility, courage, and collaboration.
Aalto University has six schools with 12,000 students and 400 professors. Design research at the Department of Design (School of Arts, Design and Architecture) fosters goal-oriented research, imaginative experiments, critical discussion, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The department has strong expertise in sustainable fashion and textiles research, ranging from material innovations to user studies.
Aalto University’s campus is located in Espoo, Finland.
Learn more:
https://www.aalto.fi/en/department-of-design-/fashiontextile-futures
NORDFELS GmbH
Nordfels excels in solving complex technical challenges with a blend of expertise and flexibility.
We provide critical value to our clients through high-tech services, the construction of intricate production systems, and the optimization of production processes. Our work spans across various industries, including automotive, food and pharma, industrial sectors, and battery technology. With a focus on mechanical engineering, Nordfels combines comprehensive technical consultation with practical solutions, ensuring enhanced efficiency and innovation in every project.
Our commitment to addressing technical problems and evolving with each challenge underpins our reputation for delivering exceptional results.
ORANGE FIBER S.R.L.
Orange Fiber S.R.L. is dedicated to revolutionizing the textile industry with sustainable circular fabrics made from citrus fruit waste. Our mission is to turn “pastazzo,” the byproduct of citrus juice production, into high-quality yarn and fabric, contributing to a greener future for fashion.
Based in Sicily, we transform citrus pulp into cellulose, which is processed into our exclusive TENCEL™ Limited Edition x Orange Fiber fabric in partnership with Lenzing Group.
Since 2014, our technology and trademark have expanded to major citrus-producing countries, enhancing our global impact.
Our brand ensures transparency and quality, offering eco-friendly textiles to discerning designers and consumers.
Martur Fompak International
Martur Fompak International is a first-tier supplier and solution partner specializing in automotive seating and interior systems. Committed to innovation, the company delivers high-quality services through sustainable and accessible cockpit systems, supporting its mission to achieve long-term growth in global markets.
A deeply rooted safety culture permeates all workplaces, prioritizing both product safety and a secure working environment.
Leveraging a global team of engineers and designers, the company develops cutting-edge technologies. Strategic collaborations with universities and suppliers foster synergies that drive innovative solutions for the automotive industry.
Riga Technical University
Riga Technical University (RTU), established in 1862, is the largest technological university in the Baltic states and a leading institution in Eastern Europe.
Accredited and internationally recognized, RTU offers high-quality education and research across nine faculties, including Architecture, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, and more.
With around 1,100 staff and 15,000 students, including 2,763 international students, RTU emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship. The university fosters a modern innovation ecosystem through its Science and Innovation Centre, RTU Design Factory, and UniLab business incubator.
RTU also collaborates with the European Institute of Innovation and Technology on initiatives like Climate-KIC and EIT Urban Mobility.
MAGLIFICIO RIPA S.R.L
Maglificio Ripa S.R.L., founded in 1952 by Luigi Ripa, is a renowned textile manufacturer specializing in high-quality circular knitted fabrics.
Under the leadership of Luca Bianco, Ripa has evolved into a leader in producing fabrics for swimwear, sportswear, and technical applications, with a strong focus on sustainability.
Over half of our collection features recycled or organic yarns.
Known for our commitment to technological innovation and environmental responsibility, Maglificio Ripa has been a trusted partner for top fashion houses and sports brands for over sixty years. Our excellence in design and production reflects our deep-rooted tradition and forward-thinking approach in textiles.
CONTINENTAL
Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.
ContiTech is one of the world’s leading industry specialists. The Continental group sector offers its customers connected, environment-friendly, safe and convenient industry and service solutions using a range of materials for off-highway applications, on rails and roads, in the air, under and above the ground, in industrial environments, for the food sector and the furniture industry. With about 42,000 employees in more than 40 countries and sales of some 6.8 billion euros (2023), the global industrial partner is active with core branches in Asia, Europe and North and South America.
HOCHSCHULE Niederrhein
Hochschule Niederrhein is a leading university in Germany, known for its future-oriented education and impactful research. With ten faculties, campuses in Krefeld and Mönchengladbach, and approximately 13,000 students, it is a key research and transfer partner for regional businesses.
The Faculty of Textile and Clothing Technology, one of the largest at the university, prepares the next generation of textile engineers through innovative and sustainable programs in both English and German.
The Research Institute for Textile and Clothing (FTB) provides extensive facilities and expertise, supporting both local and international textile industries with advanced technologies and research capabilities.
ADIDAS AG
adidas is driven by a passion for sport and its impact on lives, cultures, and health. Our purpose, “Through sport, we have the power to change lives,” shapes our operations, partnerships, and product creation. Committed to pushing the boundaries of human potential, we aim to unite people through sport while fostering sustainability.
Our mission is clear: to be the world’s leading sports brand. We strive to deliver the highest quality sports products, exceptional service, and outstanding consumer experiences, all while maintaining a strong focus on credibility, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility.
RATTI Luino SRL
RATTI LUINO S.R.L. is a leading innovator in the textile machinery industry, specializing in the design and manufacture of advanced two-for-one (TFO) twisting machines for continuous filament fibers.
Established in 1869, the company has built a global reputation for excellence. RATTI LUINO offers a comprehensive range of products under its renowned RATTI, OMM, and Menegatto brands.
The RATTI line features state-of-the-art twisting machines for various fibers, including Nylon, Polyester, and Silk. OMM and Menegatto brands focus on covering machines for elastic and rigid yarns, as well as rubber tapes.
With a legacy of continuous improvement, RATTI LUINO remains a cornerstone of the textile machinery sector.
QUANTIS
Quantis began as a pioneering lab initiative at the Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), driven by a vision to make life cycle assessment (LCA) impactful for businesses.
Since our founding in 2006, we have led or contributed to major methodologies and initiatives to quantify and measure environmental impacts. Partnering with CIRAIG and integrating the LCA research team from EMPA, Quantis has grown into a leader in environmental strategy and metrics.
With over 15 years of expertise, we excel in assessing environmental footprints and driving systemic change. Our work spans over 12 EU-funded projects and supports 50+ industry players in integrating sustainability through innovative strategies and tools.
Heberlein AG
Heberlein Technology AG has been a Swiss textile industry leader since 1835, specializing in air interlacing and air texturing jets for synthetic continuous filament yarns.
Based in Wattwil, Switzerland, the company leverages its deep expertise in textile machinery and ceramic processing to serve diverse industries, including medical and industrial sectors through Heberlein Ceramic Solutions.
With a rich history rooted in the Heberlein yarn dye works, established in 1835, the company offers an extensive product range of 31 commodities and 1,293 versions.
Heberlein Technology AG employs 84 staff members, including numerous trainees, and remains at the forefront of textile technology and innovation.

















