In a significant stride towards promoting sustainability in the textile industry, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) joined the Sustainable Apparel and Textiles Conference held on June 25-26, 2024, at the Verizon Executive Education Center in Cornell Tech, New York City. 

The two-day conference served as a pivotal platform for international stakeholders to converge and discuss innovative solutions and practices aimed at fostering sustainability throughout the apparel and textiles supply chain.  

Attended by prominent industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and advocates, the event highlighted the urgent need for transformative actions to mitigate environmental impacts and promote ethical practices within the sector. 

With a total of 200 participants, featuring 20 practical sessions, the conference boasted 60 prominent speakers, including Laura Wittman, Vice President of New Balance; Alon Rotem, Chief Legal Officer of thredUP; Deanna Bratter, Vice President of Crocs; Stevent Bethell, Co-Founder of Bank & Vogue; Jamil Ahmad, Director of the United Nations Environment Programme New York Office; Noelle Angeli, Senior Head of Apparel and Material Development of PUMA Group; Chelsea Murtha, Director of Sustainability of the American Apparel and Footwear Association; and others.