Karsten achieves a 93% waste recovery rate and strengthens the circular economy in the textile industry
Company expands sustainability, circularity, and innovation initiatives, transforming waste into resources for new production cycles
Karsten has reached a significant milestone in its sustainability strategy by achieving a 93% reuse rate for waste generated in its industrial operations. This result stems from continuous investment in technology, innovation, and environmental management, reinforcing the company’s commitment to the circular economy and the reduction of environmental impacts within the textile industry.
This progress reflects an ongoing review of production processes and the supply chain, focusing on waste reduction, increased material circularity, and the environmentally sound disposal of waste. Currently, the reuse rate covers materials such as textile waste, paper, cardboard, metal, wood, cotton dust, and lubricating oils destined for re-refining.
Among the initiatives implemented by the company is the reuse of 79.7 tons of cotton fiber waste in the spinning process. Using specialized equipment, the material is cleaned and reintegrated into production, reducing waste and increasing raw material efficiency. Surplus material from the sizing stage is also now being recovered and reused internally.
In addition to investments in industrial processes, Karsten has been strengthening its waste management through improvements in selective waste collection, training on proper material segregation, and the adoption of logistics solutions geared toward co-processing, in partnership with specialized companies.
“The environmental challenges facing the textile industry require concrete actions and a long-term vision. At Karsten, we strive to ensure sustainability is embedded throughout the entire production chain—from efficient resource management to responsible waste disposal. Our 93% reuse rate demonstrates that it is possible to reconcile economic development, innovation, and environmental responsibility,” says Jessica Primon, a sustainability specialist at Karsten.
These initiatives have also yielded operational gains. In 2025, approximately 3,000 cardboard boxes were reused internally and reintegrated into retail logistics, resulting in savings of R$ 21,900 on the purchase of new packaging. During the same period, 136.9 tons of broken pallets and wood scraps were converted into biomass for use in the factory’s boilers, thereby reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills and the consumption of virgin raw materials.
The circularity strategy also extends to product development. The Renova line has expanded its portfolio while maintaining sustainable attributes from the outset—such as the use of recycled yarn, a 100% cotton composition, reduced water and chemical consumption during production, and the application of a natural, cottonseed oil-based fabric softener. Furthermore, some of the bags used in stores are now manufactured using recycled material and a biodegradable additive.
“We continue to invest in processes, technology, and governance to enhance material circularity and strengthen a culture of continuous improvement. We recognize that the sector’s transformation relies on collaboration among companies, suppliers, consumers, and society, and we aim to actively contribute to this evolution,” highlights Rosângela Schneider, Executive Director of People Management and Sustainability at Karsten.
The company’s progress in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas is detailed in its Sustainability Report, prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)—a leading international standard for ESG disclosure. The document presents the results achieved by the company and reaffirms its commitment to innovation, environmental preservation, and the sustainable development of the Brazilian textile industry.
About Karsten
Recognized as one of Brazil’s longest-standing companies, with a 143-year history, Karsten was founded in Blumenau in 1882. Driven by renewal, transformation, and innovation, this pioneering brand offers bed, table, and bath linens as well as decorative fabrics, all utilizing state-of-the-art technology. It ranks among the sector’s most respected companies both in Brazil and abroad, with a presence in over 20 countries and approximately 7,000 points of sale nationwide, in addition to its own stores in Santa Catarina, Paraná, and São Paulo. The company currently employs over 2,500 people and is recognized as one of the best places to work in Santa Catarina, having held the GPTW (Great Place to Work) certification for nine consecutive years. A company with deep roots in Santa Catarina, Karsten combines tradition and innovation with quality of life through its products, which are available in physical stores and online at www.karsten.com.br.