Author name: Martine Nieuwenhuis

What’s Happening? The European Union is transitioning to a climate-neutral and circular economy. This means products must become more energy-efficient, sustainable, reusable, repairable, and recyclable. Given the significant environmental impact of the textile and clothing sector, the European Commission is examining ways to improve sustainability claims for clothing and footwear. To combat “greenwashing,” the European

Fibershed Ukraine, the network’s first Affiliate in Eastern Europe, is dedicated to reviving and popularising the ancient craft of regenerative textile production. This initiative explores traditional weaving techniques and collaborates with educational institutions to reintroduce knowledge of local yarns, inspiring artisan weavers to incorporate natural materials into their practices. Key activities focus on generating employment

Fibershed DACH was established in January 2021 to unite the German-speaking regions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland under a common goal of promoting sustainable textile production. The affiliate is led by a board of four women and supported by an advisory board of three experts. Since launching its membership programme last year, Fibershed DACH has

Established in 2021, Fibershed Belgium was created to unify and support a network of Belgian textile initiatives, providing a shared direction for various groups across the country. With a focus on connecting farmers to consumers, the affiliate’s work includes hemp, flax, natural dyes, soil regeneration, and wool. Although it is in its early stages, the

Founded in August 2021 by Martine Nieuwenhuis and Stijntje Jaspers, Fibershed Netherlands was born out of their shared commitment to making textiles and clothing a positive force. With a combined 45 years of industry experience, Martine and Stijntje left traditional fashion roles to establish Fibershed NL, guided by the Fibershed approach to fostering locally produced,

Fibreshed Wales, founded in March 2023 by researcher and textile specialist Adrienne Titley, focuses on creating a connected community for Welsh fibre and dye artisans. Adrienne’s work in natural fibres began with a thesis examining the potential benefits of establishing a natural fibre and dye network across Wales, recognising the need for a unified platform

Fibreshed Ireland was established in February 2022 by Kit Keawwantha, a fibre artist and ecologist, and Malú Colorín, a natural dyer and designer. The founding motivation stemmed from frustrations with the undervaluation of Irish wool and the scarcity of Irish-grown fibres and dyes in the market. Recognising the fragmented nature of the local textile ecosystem,

South West England Fibreshed, established in 2015 by Emma Hague, is dedicated to re-establishing a regional supply network for woolen clothing. The affiliate, which now has 36 members, engages in various activities to support and connect the local textile community. Key initiatives include peer-to-peer networking, storytelling through the “Farming Fashion” podcast, and collaborative projects such

Founded in March 2020 by natural textile dyer and educator Justine Aldersey-Williams, Northern England Fibreshed began with a mission to support the regeneration of local communities and the environment. The Affiliate seeks to reintroduce textile crops into British agriculture, creating opportunities for growers, producers, and educators. In March 2023, the initiative expanded, with Soil Association