Linen, precious as the future

Linen, precious as the future

Linen, precious as the future

Upwears: Linificio in the Future of Sustainable Textiles

Linificio e Canapificio Nazionale is proud to be an active partner in the Upwears project, a cutting-edge European initiative that embodies the company’s core values: tradition, innovation, sustainability, and a strong spirit of collaboration.
Upwears represents a significant step towards a more responsible and circular textile industry, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal.

What is Upwears?

Upwears is an ambitious project that aims to revolutionize the textile sector through:

  • Valorization of natural fibers: use of linen, hemp, cork, and by-products of the paper industry to create high-performance bio-based fabrics.
  • E-textile innovation: development of smart fabrics (e-textiles) with advanced functionalities, such as integrated sensors for environmental and physical performance monitoring.
  • Circular sustainability: implementation of low environmental impact production processes, waste reduction thanks to artificial intelligence, and use of green treatments for bleaching.

The project focuses on creating a prototype cycling and mountain biking suit that is simultaneously smart, functional, protective, and sustainable.

This suit will integrate the latest innovations in the field of e-textiles and will be characterized by:

  • Abrasion resistance
  • Waterproofing and/or water repellency
  • Elasticity
  • Breathability
  • Tear resistance

Upwears is much more than a simple project; it’s a European initiative that aims to build an innovative and replicable supply chain, valorizing linen, cork, hemp, and by-products of the paper industry to create bio-inspired e-textiles for the sports industry. With 15 partners from 7 countries, Upwears represents a shared commitment to a more sustainable future.
Upwears will contribute to resource efficiency and a sustainable economy, unlocking the potential of a new generation of bio-based and hybrid fabrics for e-textiles.

As an international leader in the sustainable production of high-quality linen and hemp yarns, Linificio brings to Upwears its years of experience and constant commitment to innovation, also evidenced by its B Corp certification.

Upwears is set to generate positive impacts on multiple levels:

  • Environmental: Reduction of pollution, resource consumption, and waste production in the textile industry.
  • Social: Job creation in Europe, promotion of fair working conditions, and increased consumer awareness of the importance of responsible textile choices.
  • Economic: Strengthening European competitiveness in the global textile market, developing new business opportunities, and reducing dependence on non-European suppliers.

Linificio e Canapificio Nazionale is convinced that projects like Upwears represent a successful model for a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient textile industry. The company will continue to invest in projects and initiatives that promote the valorization of natural fibers and the transition towards a circular economy.

Goals achieved

Partners of the project