Fibershed

Fibershed is a global movement of local communities developing regional fiber systems that build soil and protect the health of our biosphere. As a thought leadership and advocacy organization focused on cross-industry collaboration, the non-profit is on a mission to mobilize and guide the textile and apparel industries in (re)building and strengthening local textile supply chains based on social, bio-circular, and regenerative values.

Fibershed emphasises the urgent need for more transparency and respect for our textiles and clothing and strives to restore the lost relationship with the origin of what we use and wear every day. The organisation embraces the geographical characteristics of each specific region with a deep understanding of social and environmental restoration needs.

At a local level, each Fibershed affiliate takes an action-oriented approach by working closely with local impact entrepreneurs, educational institutions, policymakers, and all other stakeholders who want to contribute to a new just, regenerative textile economy.

Founded in California in 2012, the movement today has more than 60 regional affiliates in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America who connect and share knowledge. Under the leadership of Fibershed Netherlands, the 14 European affiliates set up a Fibershed Europe platform from which cross-regional cooperation and knowledge exchange are facilitated, with the aim of building a strong, decentralised, bio-circular and regenerative textile economy in Europe.

About Stijntje Jaspers

Creative Circular Changemaker, Program Director and Chairman of the Board, Fibershed Netherlands

After more than 25 years of experience in leading creative positions in the internationally operating Dutch fashion retail sector, Stijntje is now fully committed to circular textiles and clothing. As co-founder and chairman of the board of Stichting Fibershed Nederland, she focuses on translating creative concepts and progressive visions into practical reality through transparent and pre-competitive interdisciplinary collaboration and educational programs.

About Martine Nieuwenhuis

Raising awareness for systemic change, Business Leader and Executive Board Fibershed Netherlands

Martine brings over 20 years of experience in concept and project management in the international creative industry as a marketing and e-commerce expert. She is committed to guiding fashion and retail brands towards a new, holistic way of entrepreneurship, embracing social, environmental, and business realities. As a co-founder and board member of Stichting Fibershed Nederland, she focuses on setting up innovation and education programmes and ensuring that projects are realised within budget, on time, and in a responsible manner.