Textile Recycling in Transformation: How REDWAVE TEX Delivers Flexibility and Efficiency

Empowering textile recyclers with flexible, data-driven technology that meets tomorrow’s regulations today.

The Textile Transformation is Well Underway

6.95 million tonnes of textile waste are generated annually in the EU alone. Less than 1% of textiles produced globally are recycled into new textile products. The textile recycling sector is at a pivotal moment, driven by ambitious regulations, growing environmental awareness, and technological innovation. BT-Systems, through its REDWAVE Competence Centre and the forward-thinking REDWAVE TEX technology, is playing an active role in shaping this future.

Market Developments and Regulatory Framework

The EU’s “Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles” sets ambitious targets: from 2025, the separate collection of textile waste will be mandatory in all member states. Plans are also in place for harmonised Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, making producers accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products – from production to recycling. These regulations are increasing the demand for advanced sorting technology capable of returning textile waste to high-quality material streams. Companies that invest early in efficient systems will secure a vital competitive advantage.

Technology for the Circular Economy: REDWAVE TEX

REDWAVE TEX is a sensor-based sorting technology that automatically identifies and separates textiles by material type, colour, and contaminants such as buttons, zips, or labels. Its modular design allows flexible adaptation to specific sorting criteria and process requirements – available both as a single module and as a fully integrated system comprising scanners, control cabinets, analysis software, conveyors, discharge units, and valve boxes. Since its launch at IFAT 2024, REDWAVE TEX has undergone continuous development – both mechanically and in software. The result is a versatile portfolio designed to meet diverse requirements:

• REDWAVE 2i Solution: High throughput for basic sorting criteria – ideal for shredded textiles.

• REDWAVE TEX System: Simultaneous sorting into multiple target fractions – perfect for whole garments or reuse concepts.

• REDWAVE Analyser: Real-time monitoring and quality control directly on the conveyor belt.

Flexibility and Innovation as Competitive Advantages ©

BT-Systems doesn’t rely on rigid standards, but on flexible, future-oriented solutions. Working closely with customers, the company develops tailored sorting systems – for example, integrating customer-specific sensor data into sorting processes. This approach enables intelligent, data-driven systems that are precise, efficient, and future-proof in terms of regulatory compliance. Through feasibility studies and continuous optimisation, BT-Systems delivers practical solutions that meet the increasing demands of the industry. The modular REDWAVE TEX technology allows for flexible system configurations – from individual components to fully integrated, turnkey solutions. This versatility provides actionable answers to the challenges of textile recycling and secures long-term competitive advantages.

Showcasing REDWAVE TEX at the Textile Recycling Expo

BT-Systems will present REDWAVE TEX at the upcoming Textile Recycling Expo in Brussels (Hall 3, Stand 2015). As a founding exhibitor, the company will offer insights into the latest technological advancements and invites industry professionals, decision-makers, and research institutions to engage in dialogue. Visitors can discover how REDWAVE TEX is paving the way for a sustainable, circular textile economy – efficient, flexible, and future-ready.

For more information, visit: www.redwave.com and www.bt-systems.at

About BT-Systems GmbH – Technological Innovations for Recycling, Automation, and Logistics

BT-Systems GmbH is a leading Austrian technology provider with 400 employees, an annual turnover of €150 million, and a global presence. As a pioneer of technological innovation and quality “Made in Austria,” the company offers solutions worldwide in recycling, automation, conveyor technology, and warehousing. A flagship of the company is the REDWAVE Competence Centre, setting global standards in the recycling industry. Through innovative, sensor-based sorting machines and comprehensive system solutions, REDWAVE optimises the recovery of valuable resources and plays a key role in advancing the circular economy. Combining technological precision with forward-looking innovation and a strong commitment to sustainability, REDWAVE operates at locations in Austria, Germany, the USA, and Singapore. Find out more at www.bt-systems.at or www.redwave.com.

Media Contact

Mag. (FH) Angela Thaller International Marketing Tel: +43 664 80051 2276 Email: a.thaller@bt-systems.at