What is the common point shared by wood, paper, textile and composites?

They are all made of fibres. Their intrinsic qualities (light weight, resistance, comfort, etc.) enable to design materials with a low environmental impact, and also to identify new applications and new markets for these materials.

Companies and research centers have gathered and formed the one and only innovation network dealing with the design of fibers and fibreous materials in France; ie the French Fibers Innovative Cluster (its name being "Pôle de Compétivité Fibres" in French).

The French Fibers Innovative Cluster is at the interface of industrial sectors with key expertise, based on both an abundant resource and cutting edge research of a very high standard in its area -ie the North East of France, and more precisely the Lorraine and Alsace regions.

Karl Gedda, General Manager for the French Fibres Innovative Cluster, confirms this: "we have the complete value chain (participants in industry, research, training, etc.) and institutional support essential for the emergence of an industrial sector for fibrous materials, united by the aim of responsible innovation".

The 400 member companies and researchers work on developing new materials for sustainable housing, interior fittings, transport, or healthcare & individual protection.

Using the intrinsic qualities of fibrous materials to design more environment-friendly materials based on eco-design and green chemistry.

Moving towards more environment-friendly materials and processes, and materials with improved performance, thanks to a responsible vision of innovation.

In order to conquer new markets and/or adapt their business models.

In the field of natural fibres, green chemistry (out of wood), and upgrading of by products and recycled materials.