The textile sector today is more challenging and more exciting than ever. Globally, buyers and regulators are much more aware of water conservation and other environmental matters.Brands have tighter delivery schedules, more demanding cost efficiency targets, and stricter compliance requirements. The world's increasingly influential middle-class consumers want end products that combine excellent performance and aesthetics in equal measure.

Products and processes we develop help mills achieve profitability targets and boost their bottom line. These same products and processes make it easier for them to reduce water and energy consumption and reduce effluents. We help mills communicate with brands and retailers so they, in turn, can show consumers how to cut water and energy consumption during washing, tumble drying and ironing.

As a leader in global chemical manufacturing industry, we make it our business to stay aware of megatrends that impact our operations, our products and our stakeholders. The world's water use has been increasing at more than twice the rate of population growth over the last century, according to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. An increasing number of regions are chronically short of water, and too much of our fresh water is wasted, polluted and unsustainably managed. By 2030, global demand for fresh water will increase by 40 per cent and by 2050, an estimated 1 billion people will face water shortages for daily living such as drinking, cooking and bathing.

The textile industry is one of the oldest and largest in the world and has helped many nations grow their economies and improve the livelihoods of their people. But globally, the textile dyeing and finishing industry is also one of heaviest consumers of water and energy. The industry must adopt sustainable business practices to truly reduce its environmental impact, especially in developing countries, which are the most affected by access to clean water.

At Huntsman, we have focused our research and technology team's energies on creating chemical products that feature environmental and economic benefits. It starts with our product stewardship approach from the point of development to the ultimate disposal of our products in a safe, healthy, environmentally sound and sustainable way. This has resulted in products such as AVITERA^® which helps reduce water consumption per kilogram of material by 50 per cent from an average of 30 to 40 liters to only 15 to 20 liters.

Creating a sustainable textile supply chain will be a key business driver in 2016 and for many years to come for Huntsman Textile Effects. We have already begun the journey to become a leaner, stronger and - most importantly - a more sustainable industry. Huntsman Textile Effects will continue to pioneer a sustainable textile industry and to engage different stakeholders to effectively address environmental challenges facing the industry. By sharing our capabilities, we believe we can make a difference towards supporting a more sustainable environment for our future generations!