Several Members Speak at Workshop on Reusable Healthcare Textiles

03/08/2024

A groundbreaking development to pave the way for greater use of healthcare textiles (HCTs) as personal protective equipment (PPE) took place March 4-5. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NAS) hosted a virtual workshop that examined HCTs’ benefits over disposables, engaging industry and technical experts, policymakers, manufacturers, PPE users and other stakeholders.

Ecotex, K-Bro Cited in Canadian Reusable PPE Research

01/05/2024

Research led by the Canadian Coalition for Green Health Care on personal protective equipment (PPE), intentionally designed and manufactured as reusable, including gowns, goggles, face shields and elastomeric respirators, was conducted to identify prospects for reducing plastic PPE waste with a focus on opportunities for reduction and reuse in the health system. Most of the PPE used in Canada is made of plastic, and much of it is disposable, according to a news release.

CDC Responds to TRSA Reusable Inquiry

12/01/2023

During TRSA’s 2023 Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, the focus of the legislative visits were to gain signatures for a congressional letter to send to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra. The letter asked Secretary Becerra to study the benefits of reusable personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare facilities and find ways to increase the amount of reusable PPE in healthcare operations.

$3-Million-Plus Investment to Propel Textile Recycling Innovation

10/06/2023

Dayton, OH-based textile recycling startup Hybridworks reports it has attracted a $3.2-million seed-series equity investment from a private Midwest-based investor. The company views this as a significant milestone in its effort to deliver the most scalable and energy-efficient technology available to the industry.

‘Do the Right Thing’: Recycling ‘Down Under’

09/08/2023

Amid regulatory pressures in states such as Massachusetts to divert ragged-out textiles – particularly cotton-polyester garments – from landfills, Alsco Uniforms – Australia is partnering with an Aussie firm that’s pioneered a process that breaks out polyester for reuse in plastic products. What’s more, cellulose from the cotton serves as a component for a hydromulch that’s sprayed on areas cleared of plant life for building projects in order to grow new vegetation.

Assembly Member to Meet with TRSA Members in NY

09/01/2023

TRSA recently updated its lineup of events with a New York Regional Roundtable and Plant Tour on Oct. 18 featuring remarks from Assembly Member Amanda Septimo, of the 84th district of the New York State Assembly. The event, located at the Residence Inn Marriott in New Rochelle, NY, will kick off with a networking lunch.

NHS Upping its Use of Reusable Textiles

08/11/2023

A firm based in Hampshire, England, is partnering with the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) to reduce its production of plastic waste and increase its use of reusable textiles, according to a recent report.

Safe, Secure and Sustainable: Study Touts Use of Reusable PPE

08/04/2023

A recent article in Healthcare Management Forum noted the heightened importance of reusable personal protective equipment in the healthcare setting in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study concludes that reusable PPE has many benefits besides its effectiveness in protecting healthcare professionals and patients from infection by microorganisms. These advantages of reusable PPE include lower costs, domestic jobs and improved environmental performance.

Jenkins to Depart ARTA

07/27/2023

The American Reusable Textile Association (ARTA) Board of Directors recently announced a change to the organization’s leadership. After serving 16 years as executive director, Nancy Jenkins of Jenkins Integrated Methods is leaving the association to serve as a licensed professional counselor.

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