The partnership between Humana Nova and Regeneracija Non-wovens, which dates back to 2013 and has expanded since then, is an example of how B2B partnerships can help build a local circular value chain that not only benefits the organisations involved but also facilitates the employment of socially disadvantaged individuals.
Humana Nova supplies locally collected textile waste to Regeneracija for recycling, which the company processes into felt. Over the years, cooperation has expanded: Regeneracija sends the felt produced from textile waste back to Humana Nova to be packaged by people in work integration. Through the collection and recycling of textile waste, the partnership facilitates the production of recycled textiles materials ready for use in industries like construction, furniture, and automotive manufacturing.
Since its inception, the partnership has facilitated the recycling of 1,900 tonnes of textiles, leading to the production of 6 million m² of felt, of which 1.95 million m² was packaged by Humana Nova - equivalent to 273 football fields. The initiative created 11 direct jobs and provided training for 42 individuals. In 2023, this partnership was recognised at the national level, with an award for sustainable organisation, in the category of small enterprises.
“This collaboration can be easily replicated in other areas, and that is our plan for the future. We are currently in negotiations to establish a small-scale felt production facility at Humana Nova, although it requires significant investment and space.”
Humana Nova representative
©Photo by Humana Nova
