Mastering system management means effectively managing “resources” and streamlining “processes.” Resources encompass manpower, equipment, materials, methods, and environment, with a crucial focus on individuals’ personal goals aligning with organizational objectives.
Development of Petrochemical Industry and Textile Materials
Since 1920, the petrochemical industry has undergone a century of vigorous development, ushering in several economic revolutions that greatly transformed our economy and lifestyle. Its end products find applications in various domains such as food, clothing, shelter, transportation, nurturing, and entertainment. It’s noteworthy that over 95% of organic chemicals today are petroleum-based, and over 70% of textile materials or processing are also derived from petrochemicals. These technological advancements have brought significant changes to our lives and industries. Who could have imagined a century ago that natural materials would advance to the extent of chemical innovation we witness today?
Development of Environmentally Sustainable Materials
In recent years, governments, convention organizations, and brand enterprises have increasingly emphasized the development of environmentally sustainable materials, showing keen interest in pathways utilizing recycled or bio-based materials. This drives continuous innovation in material management, aiming for better resource and process management, aligning with the dual focus on managing “resources” and streamlining “processes.”
Textile industries emphasize production management and consistent quality. From spinning, weaving, dyeing, finishing, to post-processing, the essence lies in selecting materials of stable quality and employing processes with minimal carbon footprint and environmental impact, meeting functional requirements sustainably.
I believe in constructing a closed-loop system. By leveraging the strengths of both natural and chemical materials, we aim for sustainability, environmental protection, and increased product value.
Practical Implementation of Sustainable Materials at Singtex
SINGTEX Group embarked on the development of coffee yarn technology in textile products since 2009. We gradually developed coffee-based materials like S.Café® Eco²sy® for thermal insulation, S.Café® AIRMEM™ for waterproof and breathable membrane lamination, and S.Café® P4DRY™ for three-dimensional printing. This bio-based material system allows materials to return to their origins, emphasizing clear definition of material applications and process parameters at each component and stage, whether natural or chemical.
Sustainability in Textile Process
The application of yarn is the soul of textiles, necessitating attention to production management and environmental protection, selecting stable materials, and employing low-carbon, environmentally friendly process technologies. SINGTEX Group’s process conditions include dyeing and film coating lamination processes, opting for waterless dyeing, low liquor ratio dyeing to conserve water, eco-friendly dyes, bio-based environmentally friendly auxiliaries, solvent-free water-based coating processes, and solvent-free environmentally friendly lamination processes. Further defining solutions to environmental waste issues, textile materials can either utilize recycled materials or be designed to be recyclable. Such sustainable goals constitute the functional and environmental features of textile products, all achievable at SINGTEX Group.
Practical Sustainability and Influence on Development
As governments commit to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, it implies that corporate entities must embody specific environmental “goals.” Therefore, the research and development team must align personal goals with corporate objectives consistently. “Personal goals” require unwavering dedication and adherence from each researcher, while “corporate goals” entail development that aligns with market trends and meets market demands.
Every action leaves a trace. With these traces, we cannot ignore the impact they bring. Before taking action, we must consider whether the impact is positive or negative. As the application of materials is extensive, sustainable management of materials must address various challenges to achieve our sustainability goals, improve management performance, and ensure readiness to face future challenges.
