What happens to a piece of clothing that is produced but never sold? Until recently, the answer could simply be: it is destroyed. Across Europe, an estimated 4–9% of unsold textiles are destroyed before ever being worn, generating unnecessary environmental impacts and wasting the raw materials, water, energy and labour used to produce them.

We were delighted to participate and present our project at BEYOND Expo 2026, held in Athens from 17–19 June 2026.

Every World Water Day reminds us of our planet's fragile water resources, yet the global textile industry often escapes the spotlight. Transforming the fashion industry from a massive water polluter into a force for environmental stewardship is a monumental task, but the combined efforts of initiatives like Skills4Circularity and 3DP STEF prove it is entirely possible.

Education is a human right, and young people play a key role in shaping its future. The 3DP-STeF project embraces co-creation by engaging students, educators, and industry professionals to design curricula that meet real skills needs in fashion, textile, and interior design sectors. Surveys open until 15 February 2026 will inform digital and ICT learning modules, ensuring education stays relevant, innovative, and future-ready.

The 3DP-STeF project, led by the Technical University of Crete and the European Education and Learning Institute, kicked off on October 2, 2025, in Chania, Crete. With 16 European partners, the initiative aims to close skills gaps in manufacturing, textile, and fashion sectors, supporting Europe’s digital and green transition. Over four years, it will develop a Master’s programme, micro-credentials, and promote sustainable manufacturing practices.