DOST-PTRI to showcase natural fiber-based nonwoven textiles for sustainability

The Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) will launch a new initiative next week showcasing nonwoven textiles made from locally sourced natural fibers as sustainable alternatives to synthetic plastics for industrial and commercial use.

Called ONWARD: Philippine Nonwoven Textile Innovation, the initiative will be launched on July 1 at the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium, where the agency will present textile technologies developed using materials such as banana pseudostems, pineapple leaves, bamboo, water hyacinth, and other locally available fibers.

According to DOST-PTRI, the initiative aims to expand the country’s textile industry beyond conventional woven fabrics by promoting nonwoven materials that can be used in sectors ranging from healthcare and construction to transportation, agriculture, furniture, fashion, and infrastructure.

“We have already established ourselves in woven materials, and now we want to leverage sustainability and technical innovation, and nonwovens are the perfect fit,” DOST-PTRI Director Julius L. Leaño Jr. said.

“The focus is on creating greater value, achieving larger-scale production, and expanding applications beyond traditional woven products and apparel,” he added.

Unlike conventional fabrics that are woven or knitted, nonwoven textiles are produced by directly bonding or interlocking fibers through mechanical, thermal, or chemical processes. This allows for faster production while offering flexibility for various industrial applications.

Although often overlooked by consumers, nonwoven materials are already widely used in everyday products, including face masks, wet wipes, automotive interiors, footwear components, filtration systems, medical supplies, and construction materials.

DOST-PTRI said the nonwoven textiles to be featured under the initiative contain more than 75% natural textile fibers, reducing reliance on petroleum-based plastics while supporting more sustainable manufacturing practices.

The agency said the technology also supports efforts to maximize agricultural resources by converting materials such as banana pseudostems and pineapple leaves into higher-value products.

The exhibition will showcase nonwoven materials produced through drylaid, wetlaid, airlaid, and spunlaid technologies, highlighting their durability, adaptability, and potential applications across various industries.

The launch will also feature discussions by DOST-PTRI and its development partners on advances in nonwoven textile technology and sustainable product development.

Among DOST-PTRI’s collaborators are Sarao Motors Inc., Creative Definitions, Base Bahay Foundation Inc., Jed Yabut Furniture & Design, Junknot, Fivecent Global Corporation, the Fashion Accessory Makers of the Philippines, and designer Renz Reyes.

“ONWARD is our new development in textiles and a new chapter in Filipino fabrics. We hope it will be given the space and support it deserves,” Leaño said.

The exhibition is open to the public and will run from July 1 to July 2 at the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium. —LDF, GMA News