The “Shared Heritage and Circular Textile Project” not only deepened the cultural and economic ties between the two nations but also raised awareness of sustainable approaches in the textile sector.

Shared Heritage and Circular Textile ProjectThe Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Istanbul hosted a special event on November 28-29, 2024, exploring the cultural heritage of Turkey and the Netherlands through the lens of circular textiles. The “Shared Heritage and Circular Textile Project” was organized to strengthen sustainable collaborations between the two countries, deepen cultural connections, and foster innovative solutions in the field of circular economy.

As part of the 100th anniversary of Turkey-Netherlands friendship, the event supported sustainability-focused approaches in the textile sector while highlighting how creative designs can intersect with cultural heritage. Facilitated by the This is Mana social enterprise, the program brought together academics, industry professionals, and design students, creating a platform for knowledge and experience sharing.

The event commenced with opening remarks by the Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Istanbul, Arjen Uijterlinde, followed by two keynote speeches. Errol van de Werdt, former director of the Tilburg Textile Museum and consultant, discussed the relationship between textile heritage and circular economy. Meanwhile, Human Innovation Designer Arzu Kaprol delivered an inspiring talk on human-centered innovative designs and sustainability.

In the first panel, “Textile Heritage and Circularity Practices: The Netherlands and Turkey,” key insights into the textile histories of both countries were shared, alongside discussions on current circular economy approaches. The panel was moderated by Şölen Kipoz from İzmir University of Economics and featured speakers such as Helen Milne from New Order of Fashion, Melida Tüzünoğlu from Vogue Türkiye, and Hüner Aldemir, founder of the brands Huner and Ferah.

The second panel, “Application of Circular Economy in the Textile Sector and Future Collaboration Opportunities,” explored pioneering approaches to circular economy in textiles and discussed potential collaboration opportunities between Turkey and the Netherlands. Panelists included Mariette Hoitink from House of Denim, Vakur Besim Özek from İTKİB, and Nicoline Dorsman from Eindhoven Design Academy.

Started with an Online Training Program

Before the main event, an online training program was held during the second week of November. This program focused on circular economy practices, the creative economy, responsible design approaches, and local perspectives. Attended by students from university design and textile departments, the training laid the foundation for the projects presented during the event.

The Power of Cultural Heritage and Circular Textiles

The “Shared Heritage and Circular Textile Project” not only deepened the cultural and economic ties between the two nations but also raised awareness of sustainable approaches in the textile sector. Through this project, the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands contributed to the development of innovative ideas and the enhancement of international collaboration.