An important step has been taken in the textile industry with a focus on sustainability and resource efficiency. The “Water Management Programme for the Textile Industry,” implemented by SKD Türkiye in strategic partnership with İstanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters' Association and under the sponsorship of Beymen Group and SANKO Holding, officially started with its first webinar. During the webinar titled “Global Trends in Water Management in the Textile Industry and Brands’ Expectations from Manufacturers,” topics such as water efficiency in textile production, circular water use, transformation within the supply chain and the sustainability expectations of global brands were discussed.
“Water Management Has Now Become a Strategic Issue”
Speaking at the opening of the programme, Ediz Günsel, Chairman of the Board of SKD Türkiye, stated that success in the textile industry is now measured not only by production capacity, but also by how resources are managed. Pointing out that Türkiye is facing increasing water stress, Günsel emphasized that water management in textiles has evolved beyond environmental responsibility and become a strategic issue directly affecting competitiveness. Meanwhile, Sultan Tepe, Board Member of ITHIB, highlighted that sustainable water management has become one of the key issues shaping the future of the sector, stating: “The textile industry of the future will be the one that uses water efficiently.”
A New Era for Brands and Manufacturers
While Elif Çapçı emphasized that water management carries strategic importance in terms of production continuity, supply chain resilience and cost structures, Enise Ademoğlu Matbay stated that, together with the effects of the climate crisis, sustainability has now become critical for the business world in terms of competitiveness and access to finance. Throughout 2026, the programme will continue with training sessions, webinars, workshops and technical visits. Focusing on water efficiency, wastewater recovery, digital monitoring systems and sustainable production practices, the programme aims to strengthen common awareness and implementation culture across the textile industry.
