Ben Mead

Ben Mead serves as the Managing Director of Hohenstein Institute America. In this role, he is the company’s liaison with industry collaborations, government agencies and trade associations, while leading a team spread over North and Latin America. He also oversees OEKO-TEX® responsibilities for the U.S. field of R&D in textile auxiliaries, Dr. Duschek has played a pivotal role in propelling innovation within the textile industry. He holds a diploma in chemistry and a doctorate in natural sciences,
having completed his studies at the University of Ulm and his doctoral research on fluorocarbons at Clariant, Basel.

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Dr. Gunther Duschek

Dr. Gunther Duschek is the Managing Director as the CTOO of RUDOLF, which has a global workforce of 2,000 employees across 50 locations. With over 25 years of experience in the
field of R&D in textile auxiliaries, Dr. Duschek has played a pivotal role in propelling innovation within the textile industry. He holds a diploma in chemistry and a doctorate in natural sciences,
having completed his studies at the University of Ulm and his doctoral research on fluorocarbons at Clariant, Basel.

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Thomas Braun

Overseeing and running Swisstex California as Dyehouse manager and then as Technical Director gave me for 25 years an unparallel volume of experience in efficient and sustainable textile manufacturing, digital color management and the development of advanced dyeing processes.

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Custom Circularity Models and Understanding the Process

In this presentation, “Custom Circularity Models and Understanding the Process,” we will explore the importance of developing tailored circularity models within the textile industry. We will discuss the process of designing and implementing these custom solutions, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities they present. By delving into the need for personalized approaches, I will explain why a one-size-fits-all solution can be difficult and how custom circularity models can drive greater sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in the industry.

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Stephen Aber

Stephen Aber is the Marketing and Communications Manager at the Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF), one of the largest sources of private research funding in North America for sustainable materials management. He plays a key role in disseminating EREF’s research and facilitating dialogue within the industry.

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Michele Wallace

For twenty-two years, Michele Wallace conducted textile chemistry research in the Product Development and Implementation division at Cotton Incorporated and participated in standards development to support the company’s research. During this time, Michele led the Analytical Services Lab and was the Chemical Safety Officer.  She became engaged with life cycle assessment (LCA) in 2010 when Cotton Incorporated carried out the first global LCA of cotton fiber and fabric.

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Matthew Farrell

Matthew Farrell, Ph.D., manager of textile chemistry research at Cotton Incorporated has over a decade of experience in cotton and textile chemistry and sustainable processes. Matt conducts and manages both internal and external research projects. He holds a master’s degree in textile chemistry and a doctorate in fiber and polymer science from North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles.

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Bob Carswell

Bob Carswell is a founding member and the R&D Director at Material Return, a pioneering company dedicated to building a sustainable and socially responsible economy. Material Return focuses on custom circularity solutions for textile brands and manufacturers, leveraging worker-owned models and cutting-edge technology. Bob leads the development of custom circular yarns and products, working with his team to close the loop on textile waste in the U.S. while ensuring that workers play a central role in this emerging circular economy.

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