TEXSTYLE achieved three core objectives across Romania, Serbia and Greece. OBJ1: To support small clothing producers in embedding circular and sustainable textile processing by training SME employees and managers on green circular economy practices, water and chemical reduction, ethical sourcing and slow fashion. Training was delivered online, followed by practical pilot testing through the 'Weaving Sustainability' work-based learning workshops conducted in all three partner countries. OBJ2: To upskill SME staff and improve sustainability output by issuing micro-credential certifications in line with EUROPASS standards, supported by comprehensive training materials including a 40-page booklet, 4 technical videos, 40 slides and 80 multiple choice questions, translated into Romanian, Serbian and Greek. OBJ3: Creating systemic change through the creation of policy recommendations on better implementation of recycling methods for fast fashion consumers and the use of recycled materials in textile manufacturing. This was achieved by organising policy development roundtables in each partner country in relevant public institutions.
TEXSTYLE emerged as a direct response to the pressing environmental and skills-related challenges faced by small textile producers in Romania, Serbia and Greece. Evidence confirms that the textile industry remains one of Europe's top polluters, with significant contributions to carbon emissions and water pollution across all three partner countries. Beyond environmental concerns, SMEs in the textile sector lacked structured access to vocational training on green and circular economy practices, digital tools, and sustainable manufacturing methods. VET educators and trainers equally lacked relevant, certified learning materials in this field. TEXSTYLE addressed these needs through three interconnected objectives: training textile industry employees on circular and sustainable practices across 3 countries; issuing at least 100 micro-credential certifications to SME staff and managers; and producing policy recommendations on recycling and sustainable textile manufacturing for relevant public institutions. These objectives were implemented through five structured activities spanning material development and setting up training structures, work-based learning workshops, and policy development with roundtable discussions.