(from left) Prof. Joanne Yip, Associate Dean of SFT gave a warm welcoming speech at the symposium; Dr Yao Lei followed with a presentation on "Creative Solutions for Microplastics”; Mr Yang Zhenggao delivered a presentation on "Key Technology & Applications of Advanced. Flame-retardant Materials".
(left) Prof. Yang Jinglei from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) presented "Microencapsulation of Fire Extinguisher Chemicals and Applications" and (right) Prof. Hu Yuan from the State Key Laboratory of Fire Science of the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) delivered a presentation titled "Design Principles & Techniques of Polymer Fire Safety".
Prof. Fei Bin, coordinator of the ESG Research and Sustainable Fashion Hub, presented on “Functional and Safety Composite Fibers with Green Advantages”.
On 25 March 2025, the ESG Research and Sustainable Fashion Hub of SFT hosted the Symposium of Sustainable Fashion and Materials. The event brought together over 100 attendees from the academia and industry to address environmental challenges, and showcased recent research and technologies that aim to reduce ecological footprints while promoting circularity and safety.
The Symposium began with Prof. Joanne Yip, Associate Dean of SFT, who gave a warm welcoming speech that emphasised the importance of collaboration, inspiration, and innovation in forging new paths toward sustainability.
Dr Yao Lei from The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) followed with a presentation on "Creative Solutions for Microplastics”. She introduced the new ISO 4484-2:2023 framework for quantifying microfibre release and her team’s bio-enzymatic method to digest microplastics in wastewater. While time-intensive, this approach highlights the need for hybrid strategies, including stricter regulations, material innovation, and consumer education.
Mr Yang Zhenggao, Vice Chairman of Polyrocks Chemical Co. Ltd., delivered a presentation on "Key Technology & Applications of Advanced Flame-retardant Materials". He described innovative, non-toxic flame-retardant materials designed for plastics and emphasised their application for creating durable, fire-resistant textiles. This approach not only enhances safety but also contributes to waste reduction by promoting sustainability.
Prof. Yang Jinglei from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) presented "Microencapsulation of Fire Extinguisher Chemicals and Applications", during which he provided an introduction on microencapsulated fire-extinguishing chemicals that use ozone-safe perfluoro compounds. This innovative approach allows for heat-responsive safety applications in flexible fabrics, such as athleisure wear.
Prof. Hu Yuan from the State Key Laboratory of Fire Science of the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) delivered a presentation titled "Design Principles & Techniques of Polymer Fire Safety". He elaborated on key principles in polymer design that balance fire resistance and recyclability. Prof. Yuan emphasised the importance of developing materials that ensure user safety and can be decomposed in a responsible manner, thus highlighting sustainability as a critical factor.
Finally, Prof. Fei Bin, coordinator of the ESG Research and Sustainable Fashion Hub, presented on “Functional and Safety Composite Fibers with Green Advantages”. He discussed upcycled composite fibres, such as recycled polyester for cooling fabrics, elastomers for X-ray shielding textiles, and silk scraps repurposed for luminescent wearable technology, all of which demonstrate that waste can drive innovation.
The Symposium underscored sustainability as a multidisciplinary effort. Prof. Fei moderated a panel that reinforced the need for traceable supply chains and youth engagement, and announced scholarships for sustainable fashion research. Discussions aligned with the four pillars of the event: advancing research, bridging industry-academia gaps, shaping environmental, social and governance policies, and nurturing eco-entrepreneurs.
The speakers agreed that there is an inseparable link between durability and circularity. Flame-retardant innovations extend the lifespan of garments, while upcycling transforms waste into high-value products. Challenges, such as scaling bio-enzymatic solutions for microplastics, underscored the importance of collaboration among scientists, brands, and regulators. By merging cutting-edge science, ethical practices, and consumer awareness, the Symposium charted their vision for a fashion industry that prioritises safety, longevity, and environmental stewardship. Sustainability is not a limitation but a driving force for progress and transformation.
