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The production of protective textiles for personal protective equipment (PPE) relies on key inputs including fibers, chemicals, water and energy. As an integrated manufacturer with in-house spinning, weaving, dyeing, finishing, and non-woven production facilities, resource efficiency is embedded in daily operations through controlled chemical use, systematic monitoring of energy and water consumption, and alignment with recognized environmental certifications (hyperlink).
Resource efficiency is embedded in operational processes through monitoring systems, controlled chemical use, and permit-based management of water and energy. Resource-related expectations in the supply chain are addressed through our Global Supply Chain Management approach (hyperlink), where procurement policies and supplier requirements are defined.
TenCate Protective Fabrics applies circular economy principles primarily when possible. Because protective fabrics must meet strict safety and performance standards, full material circularity is often technically constrained, particularly where blended materials are required.
Our objective is to reduce waste generation, limit environmental impacts, and extend product lifespan through durable design and responsible material selection.
1. Textiles and Raw Materials
Our material strategy prioritizes performance, durability, and responsible sourcing. High-performance fabrics frequently require blended constructions to meet protection standards. For this reason, extending product lifespan through fit-for-purpose design is central to resource efficiency.
We integrate more sustainable material options when technically viable. For example, our Ecogreen® collections incorporate recycled polyester derived from rPET bottles and alternatives to conventional cotton, such as TENCEL™ Lyocell or ethically sourced cotton.
Environmental performance of selected products is supported by life cycle assessments documented in Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) (hyperlink).
2. Chemicals
Chemical inputs are necessary for dyeing, finishing, and performance treatments. These substances are managed through a structured chemical governance framework to ensure regulatory compliance and minimize environmental impact.
Our chemical management approach is detailed in the Chemical Management section (hyperlink).
3. Water
Water use in dyeing and finishing processes is managed through monitoring, regulatory permits, and efficiency initiatives.
For detailed information, see Water & Marine Sources (hyperlink).
4. Energy
Energy consumption, particularly in wet processing and drying, is monitored and managed through efficiency programs and reduction initiatives.
For detailed information, see Energy Management.
5. Waste Management
Production waste is managed in accordance with applicable legal requirements, with a focus on preventing waste generation where possible and recycling materials where technically and economically feasible, recognizing that effective waste management supports both environmental protection and operational efficiency.
SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
Resource efficiency is integrated into operational decision-making. We view responsible consumption not only as cost control, but as a necessary element of long-term business continuity and environmental stewardship.
Ensure responsible resource management across all operations by preventing waste where possible, minimizing pollution, and extending the useful life of our products through durable design and efficient processes.

VSME code B6-38: Total annual generation of waste broken down by type and treatment
| Total Energy Consumpion (MwH)* | |||
| 2025 | |||
| Recovery |
Disposal |
Total |
|
| EU - Dyeing and Finishing plant - Nijverdal | 1,228 | 353 | 1,580 |
| Hazardous Waste** | 1,096 | 305 | 1,401 |
| Non-Hazardous Waste | 132 | 48 | 180 |
| Waste treatment - Recycling (%) | 4% | ||
| US - Dyeing and Finishing plant - Molena | 92 | 92 | |
| US - Weaving plant - Zebulon*** | 129 | 129 | |
| US - Yarn plant - Senoia*** | 130 | 130 | |
| US - Nonwoven plant - Senoia*** | 53 | 53 | |
| Global totals | 1,228 | 756 | 1,984 |
Comments to metrics:
* For the European operations in Nijverdal, waste data is collected and managed in line with EU waste legislation, including classification according to the European Waste Catalogue (EWC).
**The primary hazardous waste stream by volume consists of aqueous washing fluids and lyes (EWC 07 02 01). Accounting for 96% of total hazardous waste, it constitutes the main hazardous wastewater generated on site. It is managed by licensed waste disposal companies (NL-VIHB) and treated in compliance with applicable hazardous waste regulations.
***In the United States, The waste generated does not meet the EPA definition of RCRA hazardous waste; therefore, all reported waste is classified as non-hazardous.
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6501 Mall Blvd Union City
Union City, GA 30291
United States of America
+1 (770)969-1000
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