#Taiwan #Taipei #circular economy #Patagonia #Xpore

Introduction

The intersection of innovation and sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial in today's world, particularly in the textile industry. On September 16, 2025, BenQ Materials hosted the groundbreaking conference titled From Material Science to Mission: 2025 Circular Economy Forum in Taiwan, emphasizing these themes. The event saw participation from well-known brands and organizations, including Patagonia, Chung Hwa Pulp Corporation, and the Circular Taiwan Network, all unified in their vision for sustainable practices in material innovation.

A New Era with Xpore

BenQ Materials is committed to driving change, expanding its horizon from electronics into textiles under its performance textile brand, Xpore. They unveiled their pioneering Xpore e2cycle, recognized as the world's first and only recycled PET fabric derived from LCD waste. This remarkable fabric illustrates how electronic waste can be effectively transformed into high-performance textiles, embodying a forward-thinking approach to sustainability.

The Vision of BenQ Materials

ZC Chen, the President of BenQ Materials, opened the forum with a compelling statement that companies should aim to be co-creators of sustainable value rather than mere suppliers. Their focus is on enhancing cross-industry circularity, linking electronics and textiles to promote a durable and environmentally-friendly future. Innovation in material science isn't just beneficial; it is essential for businesses to survive and thrive in a changing marketplace.

Patagonia's Commitment to Sustainability

The conversation at the conference continued with insights from Matt Dwyer, Patagonia's Vice President of Global Product Footprint. His presentation, Product Footprint: A Balancing Act, highlighted a decade of Patagonia's dedication to incorporating sustainable materials into their products. Currently, over 95% of their product line utilizes fibers and materials aimed at enhancing both environmental and social outcomes. Dwyer discussed the company's goal to eliminate PFAS by 2025 and their innovative approaches, such as turning discarded fishing nets into nylon NetPlus®, effectively saving millions of pounds of waste from the ocean since 2018.

Challenges and Breakthroughs with Xpore

Expanding on the partnership with Xpore, Dwyer noted how rigorous audits and durable collaborations helped establish the potential of Taiwanese suppliers in the global supply chain. The collaboration began with Xpore's launch of PFAS-free and solvent-free materials in 2020, catching Patagonia's attention immediately. In 2023, comprehensive audits delved into critical facets such as salaries and worker conditions, leading to an acknowledgment of Xpore’s transparent practices and assurance of fair labor rights.

This transparency not only built trust between the two companies but also accelerated their partnership beyond the traditional client-supplier dynamic, positioning them as true co-creators addressing the industry's complexities. Today, Xpore's cutting-edge nanoporous film is an integral component of Patagonia's M10® alpine waterproof anorak, designed for extreme environments, showcasing an exemplary model of sustainable technology.

Taiwan’s Textile Industry on the Global Stage

This venture highlights Taiwan's capability to align with and excel in global standards concerning technology, human rights, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) responsibilities. The emphasis on transparency and responsible supply chains places Taiwan's textile industry at the forefront of a vital conversation on sustainable practices.

The Role of Collaborative Innovation

Cam Huang, Secretary General of the Taiwanese Association of Technical Textiles, underscored the importance of design innovation in achieving sustainability. He urged more companies to make sustainability the heart of their brand value, framing it as a central theme at the conference. Additionally, Kirk Hwang from Chung Hwa Pulp Corporation discussed their commitment to responsible forestry and circular manufacturing, projecting self-sufficiency in green energy by 2030 through innovative transformations.

A United Vision for Sustainable Manufacturing

The forum concluded with Charles Huang from the Circular Taiwan Network advocating for a shift from linear thinking to circular collaboration, targeting the climate crisis as a focal point for collective action. The call for an alliance termed Taiwan Can Lead showcases the collective ambition and commitment to establishing “sustainable manufacturing in Taiwan” as a global standard.

Conclusion

With its innovative material strategies and collaborative partnerships, BenQ Materials aims to usher Taiwan into a new era of sustainable manufacturing. This event not only reflects a growing recognition of environmental responsibilities but also the essential role of innovation in creating a viable future for industries worldwide.