Participation in the Interreg Project “ECHT”

The Association of Environmentally Friendly Carpets (GUT) is an official partner in the transnational research and implementation project “ECHT” (Enable Digital Product Passports with Chemicals Traceability for a Circular Economy), which is conducted within the framework of the EU funding program Interreg North-West Europe (NWE).

Project Objectives

The ECHT project aims to significantly strengthen the circular economy in the textile and flooring industry through the introduction of digital product passports for the traceability of chemicals. In view of increasing regulatory requirements, particularly within the framework of the European Green Deal, the EU Textile Strategy, and the planned Ecodesign Regulation (ESPR), transparent documentation of chemicals used throughout the entire product lifecycle is becoming increasingly important.

Project Focus Areas

ECHT develops innovative approaches to make chemical traceability practicable, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The focus is on:

  • Creation of Digital Product Passports (DPP)
  • Development of action plans for the textile and flooring industry as well as policy makers
  • Establishment of a knowledge platform to promote new, circular-oriented business models
  • Support for SMEs in implementing regulatory requirements and further sustainability measures

Collaboration with ECRA

GUT works closely with ECRA (European Carpet and Rug Association), the interest group of European carpet and rug manufacturers, to effectively represent technical content and strategic goals in the project. This cooperation enables efficient and practical implementation of the project results, especially in the area of floor coverings and carpets.

Project Duration and Funding

ECHT runs from early 2024 to the end of 2026. The total project budget amounts to around 2.1 million euros, of which approximately 1.2 million euros are provided through funding from the EU program Interreg NWE.

This project is funded by Interreg North-West Europe.

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