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A new report by the textile care industries named "Why textiles win in the long run", is the result of a close cooperation between ETSA, the Belgian Asscoication for Textile Care (FBT), the Textile Service Association (TSA, UK), TRSA USA and the Swedish Textile Service Association. The report examines published literature on hygienic and sustainability performance of reusable textile-based table linens and the single-use disposable table covering used in the service industry (largely hotels and restaurants). Most of the studies taken into account by the authors illustrate strong arguments for the reusable textile option. The study concludes that the textile table linen are much more sustainable compared to disposable table coverings. Whilst maintaining these environmental credentials, the reusable textile table linens do not seem to compromise on hygienic performance when compared to disposable table linens.
Furthermore, the study highlights that textile based products do not increase the spread of COVID-19. The findings go on to demonstrate that the use of energy and water in the washing of textile linens for re-use is only half of the climate impact created by disposables when it comes to the manufacturing process and waste management after every single use. Lastly, as opposed to the rather linear business model of disposables, the circular business model applied when textile table linens pass through a large number of washing cycles, creates many local jobs. The findings show that each job created in the textile service industry creates 25% more indirect and induced jobs. This comparative investigation which focused on analyzing the hygienic standards, environmental performance and economic contribution (i.e. jobs created and protected) are within the scope of three main pillars to sustainability.
Key Points
Conclusion:
This study highlights and bring to our attention the obvious - using something several dozens of times is better than using something once and thrown away. In the larger scale of things, this is much more logical and the right choice for our hospitality businesses, the planet and for viable loacl job creation.
Short Summary (133.4 KB)
Why Textiles win in the long run_the full report (6.17 Mb)
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To find out more about our members including textile rental companies and suppliers, click here.