Philosophy
Nüwa Textiles was founded with a bias against greenwashing. Our goal is to simply produce fabrics responsibly. Amidst all of the eco frenzy and buzz about green textiles, Nüwa hopes to provide the marketplace with an honest perspective on what green textiles are. Recycled polyester fabrics have earned iconic status recently due to its easily appreciated concept and ardent media attention. It sounds like good karma knowing the dozens of water bottles you toss out each week can be transformed into next season's latest craze. But such good intentions are not enough to make a difference to our environment? Bragging about good recycling deeds is more buzz than substance.
Recycling water, reducing chemical usage, and cutting carbon emissions are just some of the things we do at home every day. As one of the largest fabric producers in the world, we expect ourselves to do the same. Environmental conservation and protection should not just be a slogan. We think it should be common sense.
Yes, we are about being the most creative weavers in the world, bringing new depth to the commonplace world of nylon, polyester and other recycled synthetics, but Nüwa puts words into action by incorporating our green ideals into every facet of a fabric's manufacture.
We choose between virgin or recycled fibers-the choice for recycling meaning up to a 77% reduction in CO2 and an 84% decrease in energy usage.
Our weaving mill received its ISO 14001 Environmental Certification in early 2008. It recycles 70% of all water used, amounting to 1,600 tons of water each day. This in a year in which they reduced by 33% energy use for lighting. They are the only mill in the world with such a record.
The dyeing and finishing plant has both its ISO 9001 Management Standard and an Oeko-Tex® 100 Certificate and is in the process of receiving their bluesign® certificate. Their commitment has resulted in significant reductions in water usage and was cited for using only 101 liters of water per kilogram of fabric dyed. The industry best standards mark is 150 liters per kilogram of fabric.
It's a tall order: meet the needs of a financially challenged consumer, a harried manufacturer, and preserve a failing ecosystem. Nüwa Textiles views this path as a responsibility. We owe this to the globe and its inhabitants.